Shameka Edwards-Crittenden
I am Shameka Edwards-Crittenden, with the Dougherty County Trailblazers – the new team down in Dougherty County.
Tell us a little about yourself:
Born and raised right here, I am a proud product of the Dougherty County School System, where I attended school, built my foundation, and now serve. I earned my degree from Albany State University and am the proud parent of three beautiful children and two amazing fur babies. Currently, I serve DCSS as a Media Specialist and Artificial Intelligence Specialist, combining my passion for education and modern technology. Beyond my career in education, I turn my love for crafting and creating into entrepreneurship as the owner and operator of two local businesses. In my free time, you can always find me making, designing, and bringing creative ideas to life.
What inspired you to become involved with AdaptED Sports, and how did the transition into coaching adapted athletes come about?
I got involved with AAASP because I believe every student, regardless of physical ability, deserves the opportunity to experience the power, camaraderie, and joy of competitive sports. As an Adaptive Sports Coach, AAASP gives me the perfect platform to merge two of my biggest passions: athletics and true inclusion. Seeing the transformational impact sports have on a student’s confidence, independence, and sense of belonging is why I do what I do.
I will be coaching all three sports: Wheelchair Handball, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Football — as Head Coach for Handball and Asst Coach for Football and Basketball.
I will be coaching all three sports: Wheelchair Handball, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Football
Tell us about why you are excited to Coach with AAASP!
Every practice is a chance to grow, every setback is a chance to learn.
What is a motto by which you live?
Focus on progress, not perfection.
Coach Kendarius McNeese
I am Coach Kendarius McNeese – with the Dougherty County School System (DCSS) Trailblazers
I grew up in Shuqualak, Mississippi and developed an early passion for education, athletics, leadership, and serving others. I attended Noxubee County schools and later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of West Alabama and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Louisiana State University Shreveport. Professionally, I serve in education and have worked across multiple roles supporting student growth, leadership, and inclusive learning environments. My background includes classroom instruction, special education, student support, and coaching. I also serve as a Community Development Council member, which has strengthened my commitment to building partnerships and creating opportunities that improve outcomes for youth and families. I believe athletics and education together create opportunities that extend far beyond competition. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active, coaching, basketball, tennis, roller skating, reading books, training in boxing, fitness, community engagement, and exploring new ways to create opportunities for young people.
What inspired you to become involved with AdaptED Sports, and how did the transition into coaching adapted athletes come about?
I became involved with AAASP because I believe every student deserves access to meaningful athletic experiences that build confidence, independence, teamwork, and lifelong memories. Adapted athletics represents more than sports. It creates spaces where athletes can discover strengths, challenge expectations, and experience belonging. For me, this work goes beyond seeing students simply as athletes. It is about investing in and developing the whole child by building character, confidence, leadership, resilience, and meaningful relationships. We are helping shape futures in a major way. Too often, people define others only by what they currently see, and that can create limitations and place ceilings on relationships and expectations. I believe students should be seen for who they can become, not just where they are today. Coaching creates opportunities to speak life into young people, expand possibilities, and help them recognize strengths they may not yet see in themselves. I am excited to be part of creating environments where student-athletes feel challenged, supported, valued, and empowered to pursue success both on and off the court.
I will be coaching all three sports: Wheelchair Handball, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Football
Tell us about why you are excited to Coach with AAASP!
As I begin my adventure with AAASP, one of the things I am most excited about is helping launch and build opportunities for student-athletes while creating a culture centered on growth, teamwork, and inclusion. What inspires me most is seeing athletes try something new, gain confidence, and realize they are capable of more than they imagined. I look forward to creating memorable experiences through competition, celebrating progress, and helping athletes develop skills that carry into everyday life.
Any Advice to share with the student-athletes?
Never let someone else define your limits. Focus on progress, trust the process, and keep showing up. Success is not always measured by wins. It is measured by growth, effort, character, and how you respond to challenges. Every practice is an opportunity to become stronger and more confident. One mindset I encourage athletes to adopt is changing your perspective from “I gotta do this” to “I get to do this.” Training, competing, learning, and growing are privileges and opportunities. When you shift your thinking, your approach changes. You show up differently, operate differently, and begin moving with greater intention and purpose. Fall in love with the process because who you become along the journey matters just as much as the outcome.
What is a motto you live by?
“Keep on keeping on.” “Not perfection, but progression.” “Will over skill.” “Fall in love with the process.” “Control what you can control.
I am honored to join the AAASP community and help expand opportunities for adapted athletics. My goal is to create environments where athletes feel seen, challenged, supported, and inspired to pursue excellence in sports and in life. I look forward to learning from athletes, families, and fellow coaches while contributing to the continued growth of inclusive athletics.
Coach Kala Williams
I am Coach Kala Williams – I am a Coach of the Dougherty County Trailblazers (This is my first year.)
I grew up in Southwest Georgia, where I developed a love for sports and helping others at an early age. Growing up, I was actively involved in athletics, especially softball, which I played for more than 20 years. My experiences in sports taught me the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and inclusion—values that continue to guide me both personally and professionally. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Health and Physical Education from Albany State University before completing my teaching certification through Valdosta State University. My educational journey prepared me for a career dedicated to helping students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to serve students in a variety of roles. I began as a paraprofessional, became a Special Education teacher, and now serve as a Health and Physical Education teacher. Working with students has always been my passion, and I enjoy helping them build confidence, develop healthy habits, and discover their strengths. This will be my first year coaching with the Dougherty County Trailblazers, and I am incredibly excited for the opportunity. I look forward to working with our athletes, building meaningful relationships, and helping them develop their skills and confidence both in competition and in life. I am eager to learn and grow as a coach while supporting our athletes as they compete, achieve their goals, and experience the many benefits of adapted sports. Family is very important to me, and I enjoy spending quality time with my loved ones whenever I can. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active, traveling, and finding creative ways to encourage and motivate others. I also serve as a drummer at my church, which is one of my favorite ways to use my talents and give back to my community. Whether I’m in the classroom, on the playing field, or coaching from the sidelines, my goal is always to create an environment where every student feels valued, supported, included, and empowered to succeed.
What inspired you to become involved with AdaptED Sports, and how did the transition into coaching adapted athletes come about?
I became involved with AAASP because I believe every student deserves the opportunity to experience the confidence, teamwork, and sense of belonging that comes from participating in sports. As both a Physical Education teacher and former Special Education teacher, I have always been passionate about creating opportunities where every student feels included, valued, and capable of success. When I learned about the Dougherty County Trailblazers and the opportunities AAASP provides for student-athletes with physical disabilities, I knew I wanted to be a part of it. Although this will be my first year coaching, I am excited to learn alongside our athletes, fellow coaches, and the AAASP community. I look forward to encouraging our athletes as they build confidence, develop new skills, compete, and discover all they are capable of achieving.
I will be coaching Wheelchair Handball, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Football.
Tell us about one of your favorite accomplishments as a Coach with AAASP!
As this is my first year coaching with AAASP, I have not yet had the opportunity to create those memorable moments on the court. However, I already consider becoming part of the Dougherty County Trailblazers a meaningful accomplishment. I am excited to begin this journey and look forward to building relationships with our athletes, celebrating their successes, and watching them grow in confidence through sports. I know that championships are rewarding, but I believe the greatest accomplishments will be seeing our athletes challenge themselves, achieve goals they may not have thought possible, and experience the joy of being part of a team. I hope to create an environment where every athlete feels encouraged, included, and empowered to succeed. I am excited to learn from my fellow coaches, support our athletes every step of the way, and create lasting memories throughout my first season with AAASP.
Any Advice to share with the student-athletes?
My advice to our athletes is to never let anyone tell you what you can’t do. Believe in yourself, work hard, and never be afraid to challenge yourself. Every practice, every competition, and every obstacle is an opportunity to grow stronger and more confident. Always encourage and support your teammates, celebrate each other’s successes, and remember that being part of a team is about more than winning—it’s about building friendships, learning life lessons, and having fun along the way. Most importantly, enjoy the journey. Be proud of your accomplishments, no matter how big or small, because every step forward is something to celebrate. Your determination, courage, and positive attitude can inspire others more than you may ever realize.
What is a motto you live by?
“Progress, not perfection.” This is a motto I strive to live by every day. I believe growth happens one step at a time. Whether in the classroom or on the field, I encourage students and athletes to focus on becoming better than they were yesterday. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, every small victory is worth celebrating, and every person has the ability to achieve great things with faith, determination, and consistent effort.
Whether I’m teaching in the classroom, coaching on the field, or serving at my church, my goal is always the same—to encourage others, help them recognize their potential, and remind them that they are capable of more than they realize. I hope to make a positive difference in the lives of the athletes and families I have the privilege to serve.
Coach Jeremy Downing
Jeremy Downing, Head Varsity Football Coach, Houston County – CB Watson Primary, Houston County Sharks Coach – he has been a coach for 2 years.
“When I stopped coaching baseball and softball, Coach Jones came to my classroom and recruited me to coach with the Sharks. I was apprehensive at first, due to not knowing the sport, but decided to give it a shot. It was one of the best decisions I have made. I was hooked after the first practice!” Coach Downing shared.
Coach Downing said that it was hard to have a favorite moment – he enjoys them all. But, the one that stands out to me was when one of my players had been practicing extra points and field goals then he made his first one during a game – he said that was special.
His Advice for young athletes… “Remember that mindset builds character! Everyone is capable of having a championship mindset.”
A Jordan Burroughs quote Jeremy lives by… “Stay patient and stay hungry. It’s never too late to be great!”
Coach Jamie Schneller
Jamie Schneller is an interpreter/coach at Houston County High School in the Houston County School System. She has been interpreting and coaching for four years, with the Houston County Sharks.
“Some of the students that I work with wanted to be involved with the Sharks, so I was honored to be able to begin my journey with the Sharks as well,” said Henry.
Her favorite moment coaching so far has been seeing the kids learn, meet and exceed what they thought they could achieve.
Her advice for athletes… “How you practice is how you play, so practice hard!”