The NJAA Movement
_edited.jpg)
It's a Whole
New Game
NJAA is revolutionizing youth sports by:
1. focusing on holistic development of junior athletes; and
2. providing opportunities to build wealth for adulthood.
World-class tournaments, events, and developmental programs designed to motivate junior athletes and reward participation, performance, and personal growth.
Play with Purpose. Earn with Power. Win Forever.
ABOUT NJAA
The National Junior Athletic Association, Inc. is a non-profit organization focused on the holistic development of young athletes physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, soulfully, and financially. We strive to be the most respected, trusted, and life-changing youth sports organization in the United States where every junior athlete builds a stronger foundation for lifelong success.
MISSION
NJAA’s mission is to revolutionize and lead the future of junior athletics by championing the holistic development of young athletes while providing opportunities to earn foundational wealth early in life.
VISION
NJAA envisions a new era in youth sports for all junior athletes — one that concentrates on developing healthy, positive, grateful, and stable young athletes who are better prepared for adulthood physically, mentally, emotionally, soulfully, socially, and financially.
SOCIAL IMPACT VISION
NJAA has designed a fundamentally new approach to youth sports that addresses key national challenges. We create systemic change by prioritizing positive development and early wealth building.
We envision a future where NJAA transforms lives and drives meaningful economic vitality. We see more stable, well-developed, healthier, and happier young adults with reduced student loan dependence and long-term debt, boosted personal savings and economic mobility, and perhaps even the ability to retire earlier to enjoy the fruits of their hard work and life's pleasures.
NJAA's CORE6
NJAA is built on six pillars that guide every tournament, event, program, initiative, and opportunity we create. Together, these pillars form the foundation for better development — ensuring every young athlete grows stronger in every dimension of life.
1. Athletics
We believe in the power of sports. NJAA promotes athletic development and physical health with an emphasis on character, sportsmanship, integrity, and long-term growth.
2. Education
Academic achievement fuels future success. NJAA supports academic enrichment and learning through educational incentives and partnerships that keep young athletes focused and future-ready.
3. Mental Health
True strength begins within. NJAA prioritizes mental fortitude, emotional balance, resilience, and confidence by providing access to mental-health resources and promoting a culture of positive energy, gratitude, and support.
4. Social Development
Now more than ever kids require better social development. We help young athletes build communication skills, empathy, and leadership qualities that translate into meaningful relationships and positive social impact.
5. Community Engagement
Gratitude and giving back are core to who we are. NJAA connects athletes to communities through service initiatives, mentorship, and volunteer programs that foster unity and purpose beyond competition.
6. Financial Literacy
Understanding money is part of understanding life. NJAA teaches the fundamentals of saving, investing, and financial responsibility to prepare athletes for earlier financial independence and long-term success.
GRATS
Our tribute to CONGRATULATIONS and GRATITUDE
GRATS (noun):
-
Points earned by junior athletes through NJAA-hosted, sponsored, and sanctioned tournaments, events, and programs.
-
The broader NJAA rewards ecosystem that fuels motivation, unlocks benefits and opportunities, and powers every level of the NJAA experience.
GRATS aren’t just points — they’re the engine of the NJAA movement, inspiring young athletes to participate, perform, and grow.
“I scored my personal best today — and earned a ton of GRATS!”
“Our whole team is trying to level up our GRATS this season.”
“Let’s go! I need 200 more GRATS to unlock my next reward.”
“I've been stacking GRATS all season.”
"Before our game today I participated in the positive mindset session and earned 600 GRATS."
NJAA Membership
Joining NJAA means more than being able to benefit from NJAA sponsored tournaments, events, and programs curated around the CORE6. It also means being part of a nationwide movement toward a more promising and prosperous future. We will design unique and engaging opportunities, offer meaningful rewards, and deliver life-changing experiences for our junior athletes.
Big things are coming, and NJAA’s membership program is on the way.
Join our update list and be the first to know when NJAA membership opens!
Explore Common Questions About NJAA