The Reason I Started 44 Sports Connect

There’s a moment in every journey when passion, purpose, and preparation collide—and for me, that moment gave birth to 44 Sports Connect.

As a father, coach, and mentor, I’ve witnessed the powerful impact sports can have on a person’s life. Sports shape character, build resilience, and form lifelong bonds. I’ve also seen the challenges—athletes battling with mindset, coaches lacking resources, and families navigating complex travel and recruiting decisions.

I started 44 Sports Connect to bridge those gaps.

This company is more than a business. It’s a mission to foster meaningful connections, promote the Mental Edge Method, leadership development, and provide tailored travel solutions for Sports Directors, Coaches, Athletes, Parents, and the businesses that support them. It’s the culmination of every chapter of my life, each one preparing me to serve this community with depth and authenticity.

Why the Name “44”?

That number is deeply personal. It’s the jersey number I wore growing up, and now it belongs to my son, an athlete with his big dreams. “44” represents legacy, family, and the heart of why I do what I do. It reminds me that what we build now is for the next generation.

And recently, that meaning deepened even more.

My son’s team played at The Ripken Experience in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, where they faced a team called The 44s. This team—and the people behind it—left a mark on me. They were from Wisconsin, and their parents and grandparents were some of the most genuine, salt-of-the-earth people I’ve met.

The team was named in memory of Jamie Mertens, who wore #44, loved youth sports, and lived by the words: "Be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody."Jamie lived this truth, and even in his passing, his legacy continues to inspire others.

It’s been a little over a year since I started 44 Sports Connect, LLC, and I didn’t know how much I needed to be encouraged—until I encountered this team. Their heart, their spirit, and their light reminded me why this mission matters. In a youth sports culture that can sometimes become jaded, they were salt and light. And they rekindled my fire to keep pushing forward, to lead with love, and to build something that truly serves others.

My Background: A Connector, Consultant, and Guide

I’ve worn many hats—Pastor, Non-Profit President, Paddleboarding Coach, Executive Protection Agent. I’ve led over 60 international and domestic service trips, taught people to overcome fear in open waters, and protected high-profile individuals in high-pressure situations.

In all these roles, one truth stood out: people thrive when they are supported, equipped, and seen.

Whether I’m working with an athlete on mental resilience, helping a coach navigate college recruiting, or guiding a team through leadership development, my goal is the same—to connect people with solutions that unlock their full potential.

The Vision for 44 Sports Connect

At its core, 44 Sports Connect is about service. We’re here to:

• Equip athletes with mental tools that go beyond the game

• Support coaches in leading with confidence and clarity

• Relieve travel stress for sports families and organizations

• Guide recruiting journeys with integrity and insight

  
  

This isn’t just about winning games. It’s about winning in life—on and off the field.

Looking Ahead

We’re just getting started, but the vision is clear: to build a strong, values-driven sports community where connections are meaningful, leadership is intentional, and performance is fueled by purpose.

If you're a coach, athlete, parent, or sports director looking for a trusted partner on this journey, 44 Sports Connect is here for you.

Let’s connect. Let’s grow. And let’s win together.

Tyler Lennon- 44 Sports Connect LLC