MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Every Tuesday, as part of our Greater Memphis on a Mission series, we highlight organizations making Memphis better. This week, we caught up with a group that believes in building an authentic support system around student-athletes.

Cudero Washington’s three sons grew up in the South Side Wildcats organization. His youngest, who is 12 and a rising 7th grader, is the 12U quarterback.

“It’s well structured, gospel centered, faith-based. It means a lot bringing my sons up through an organization like this. In the inner city, they always paint the picture of something negative. Actually having something positive going on it means a lot,” said Washington.

The South Side Wildcats are a Christ-centered organization dedicated to fostering the academic and athletic success of student athletes. They have a cheer program for ages five to 14 and a football program for ages five to 12.

Antwoine Clark is the founder and executive director.

“That age group is very critical, and they’re a sponge. They’re always learning and growing. So we thought that was a way to lean into that age group,” said Clark.

Three days a week, they meet to work on education, advanced training, and personal development. The main goal is to offer a support system and guide the students onto the right path.

“Had I had something like this when I was younger, I wouldn’t have gotten into thieving. All the mischievous stuff I got into,” Clark said. “All I really needed was somebody to believe in me. somebody to create a space for me.”

Since 2010, Clark has created a space for kids in South Memphis to have access to tutoring, age-appropriate physical strength and conditioning training, and guest speakers.

“You can’t be what you can’t see. If you never get exposed, you don’t know it’s possible,” said Clark.

Washington’s oldest son is in college, his middle son is headed to college to play football, and his youngest is enjoying every second of being a student athlete with the South Side Wildcats.

“We have three things: School, home, and on the field. If you’re not doing it at school, you can’t play. If you’re not doing it at home, you can’t play. Coming out here is just icing on the cake,” said Washington. “Can’t get anywhere without grades. That has to come first. Whether you want to play sports or anything in your life, grades come first.”

That is why Brown Missionary Baptist Church and Mid-South Genesis CDC donated $1,000 to the South Side Wildcats. Because a little guidance goes a long way.