Playin’ It Forward Sports, Inc. (PIFS) provides opportunities to participate in basketball activities through the Triangle Blazers Basketball Club. The club, based in Cary, North Carolina, helps players aged nine and older develop the fundamental skills to enjoy playing basketball at the pickup, recreational, school, and club levels through individual and small group development sessions. In addition to building a strong foundation in these fundamental skills, players are also exposed to opportunities to learn how to make reads and decisions. They learn mental strategies that benefit them both on the court and in the game of life.

The club is led by Michael Dixon ( Coach Michael) who serves as the volunteer director.  Coach Michael has been coaching with the club since its first season in 2009.  He holds a Gold Coach License (license # 41791407) from USA Basketball, which is recognized as the governing body for basketball in the United States.  He is also a member of the National Association of Basketball coaches. Coach Michael has been using basketball to help young people prepare to compete in the game of life for over 30 years. He played high school basketball for the Scotland Neck Lions. Coach Michael got his start teaching the game at a camp after completing his freshman year at North Carolina A and T State University. He earned a masters degree from North Carolina State University and completed post graduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Currently retired, Coach Michael worked in training and staff development for a Fortune 100 company for over 25 years. He and his wife live in Cary.

Mission and Core Values

The mission of the Triangle Blazers Basketball Club is to use basketball to teach life skills and help players entrusted in our care to become the best they decide they want to be on and off the court by focusing on three core values:

• Playing Hard
• Playing Smart
• Playing Together

and the Blazer ABCs of

• Accountability
• Bravery
• Caring

If you want to learn more about how to join the club, please email coachmichael@playinitforward.com