Georgia Prep Sports Academy is Making Big Moves
The Georgia Prep Sports Academy has a new place to call home. The Lions have moved into a new facility located in Decatur, Ga. which features community style dorms and an indoor and outdoor practice facility. Head Coach Michael Carson is excited to be part of this new change and believes it will pay dividends when he is out recruiting.
“It has really changed the game as far as prep schools are concerned,” said Carson. “We are able to house the kids here, the classrooms are here and administrative offices are here. We are excited to have our own spot.”
As of right now, the Lions will use the football field at Clarke Atlanta University for their home games. However their facilities on campus should garner a lot of attention as Carson hopes it will serve as a place where potential NFL players can train.
“We want this place to [be able to host] NFL combine training,” said Carson. “We want to open the market up and cater to every sports facet as far as football, soccer and lacrosse is concerened. Not only will GPSA use the facility but it will be open to community teams and they can use our facility for camps or 7-on-7 tournaments.”
Carson is hoping they will continue to grow and become one of the biggest prep schools in the country, similar to that of the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fl.
“IMG has about 100 acres,” said Carson. “We are not there yet but that’s where we want to be. We want to be recognized for our curriculum and what we can offer. At some point, we want to offer a 9-12 component but that will be down the road.”
GPSA was spending an arm and a leg to lease their old property, which motivated them to seek a new address. The journey started two years ago and now the doors to their new facility will be open July 1. Carson, who has been an educator for more than 20 years, is honored to be part of this transition that is sure to be a game changer.
“It feels good. I’m thankful and blessed that the Lord has trusted me to impact these young folks lives and get them on the right track. Hopefully when they graduate, they will want to give back as well,” Carson said. “I think people will look at us and say that’s where I want to be at.”
