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Career Development, Networking Skills, Life Choices: Just Run the Play

Youth Programs in Monroe-West Monroe (or anywhere DJ Davis is needed)

By Rickey and Missy Robertson, Publishers, Macaroni Kid Monroe - West Monroe July 14, 2022

On February 24, 2022, we introduced you to Coach DJ Davis, a man with vision, a heart to serve, and a deep desire to prepare young people for their futures. When you are a good man surrounded by an incredible team and family wonderful things happen so we are excited to share about the growth of DJ's passion:  "Just Run The Play".  

On July 9th, 2022, with hard work and a solid plan, DJ and Just Run The Play had an open house and ribbon cutting for their brand new "Just Run The Play University" which houses offices for staff and the Bill Norris Training Room where students learn about life from different well-known individuals around the communities of Monroe and West Monroe.  




In fact, after the open house, several local students took part in one of the "Power Play Lunch Series" meetings and sat down with Monroe Fire Department District Captain Andrew G. Jackson III to learn more about possible careers in fire, rescue, and emergency medical services.  


The Power Play Lunch Series is one of Just Run The Play's life-changing programs for teens and young adults.  During the Power Play Lunch Series, individuals from different lines of work come in to talk to students about possible careers in their fields.  Students have been introduced to real estate, banking, emergency services, and how to open a new business.  



The second program that is part of Just Run The Play is called "Student Athlete Program" or "SAP" for short. Through this program, Coach Davis and his team of trusted sources work with young people who are student-athletes on how to transition from the life of a student-athlete into life without athletics.  Unfortunately, not everyone makes it to the next level, but this program assists students with job searches, university choice, self-esteem, the psychology of the changes ahead, and how to work through the change.  DJ has worked with several local schools in North Louisiana to talk to student-athletes in different sports.  He and his team are available to travel to schools not just in North Louisiana, but all over the country, to speak with teams and seniors.  Coaches can email JRTP if they have questions about the program. 



The third program of Just Run The Play is what they are calling "My Talent My Biz".  This program focuses on helping young people who are interested in becoming entrepreneurs.  The staff and guest speakers share different perspectives and the facets of starting a business.  This training is open to young people ages 12-18 who are interested in starting their own business.


At the open house, guests were introduced to these programs and the vision of Just Run The Play.  Mrs. Kay Robertson of "Duck Dynasty" fame was in attendance.  Mrs. Robertson said, "Any program that helps young people in this way is a worthy cause and I am proud to help out and proud of DJ for putting this together."

Macaroni Kid Monroe-West Monroe was also proud to be in attendance and witness a heartfelt and emotional ribbon cutting. As Dejaneiro Davis stood in front of the red ribbon surrounded by his team and his family (mother, wife, son, and daughter) tears flowed in memory and honor of his grandmother (Mrs. Kay's best friend). I have always believed that where the tears fall, there they stand. I am confident she was there in celebration of a job well done.

For more information on Just Run The Play or to contact Coach DJ Davis, you can contact them by email.