About Deen Sports Academy
Where Athletic Excellence Meets Spiritual Enrichment
Our Mission
Deen Sports academy is a pioneering youth basketball program with a mission deeply rooted in fostering holistic development among children, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. Our program stands at the intersection of athletic excellence and spiritual enrichment, utilizing basketball as a conduit to instill essential life skills inspired by the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah.
With a commitment to promoting fitness, engagement, and teamwork, Deen Sports academy offers a unique platform where young athletes not only hone their basketball skills but also cultivate discipline, sportsmanship, and a strong sense of community. We recognize the transformative power of sports in shaping young minds and believe in leveraging this power to equip our youth with the tools they need to succeed both on and off the court.
At Deen Sports academy, we go beyond the fundamentals of the game to impart valuable life lessons, teaching our players the importance of integrity, resilience, and unity. Through a structured curriculum that integrates physical training with spiritual guidance, we strive to create a nurturing environment where every participant feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
By embracing the principles of inclusivity, diversity, and compassion, Deen Sports academy endeavors to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young athletes, paving the way for a brighter future filled with opportunity and purpose. Join us as we embark on this journey of transformation, one dribble at a time.
Meet Our Founder
Amir Rashad (Quentin Youngblood)
Founder & Program Director
Basketball Career
Amir Rashad, known as Quentin Youngblood, boasts an illustrious basketball career spanning high school, college, and professional leagues across the globe. As a four-year varsity starter at El Cerrito High School in California, he emerged as the all-time scoring leader, earning accolades such as being voted 2nd team State, California, and USA Honorable Mention All-American.
Transitioning to collegiate basketball, Rashad secured a 5-year Division 1 basketball scholarship at the University of Washington, where he was named team captain. His professional journey took him to leagues in Germany, Brazil, and Indonesia, enriching his game and providing valuable insights into different playing styles and cultures.
Coaching Experience
With a passion for mentoring, Rashad spent 13 years as a boys varsity head coach at esteemed institutions such as Castlemont High School, El Cerrito High School, and DAS International School in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Bahrain. He then served an additional 5 years as a JV and assistant varsity coach at various schools, prioritizing holistic development and leadership.
Basketball Trainer
Rashad has made significant contributions as a basketball trainer, working with athletes at all levels, from NBA prospects to middle school players. His comprehensive approach to training encompasses skill development, tactical understanding, and physical conditioning, fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment for his students.
Amir Rashad's Journey
Explore the path that shaped our founder's commitment to youth development through basketball
El Cerrito High School
Four-year varsity starter at El Cerrito High School, emerging as the all-time scoring leader. Earned 2nd team State and USA Honorable Mention All-American accolades.
University of Washington
Secured a 5-year Division 1 basketball scholarship, demonstrating leadership skills that led to being named team captain.
Professional Career
Played professionally in international leagues across Germany, Brazil, and Indonesia, gaining global perspective and diverse cultural experiences.
International Coach
- Das Saudi Arabia
- Senegal, Mali, West Africa
- Dubai
- Bahrain
Varsity Head Coach
Spent 13 years as boys varsity head coach at institutions including Castlemont High School, El Cerrito High School, San Lea dro High School and DAS International School in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Bahrain.
JV & Assistant Coach
Served 5 years as JV and assistant varsity coach at various schools, continuing to prioritize holistic development and leadership skills.
Deen Sports academy
Founded Deen Sports academy, combining athletic training with spiritual guidance to develop well-rounded young athletes.
AlQawamun Retreat
Took on the role of Program Director for the AlQawamun Retreat, expanding his impact through comprehensive youth development programs beyond basketball.
AlQawamun Retreat
In addition to leading Deen Sports academy, Amir Rashad serves as the Program Director for AlQawamun Retreat, an initiative of the United Muslim Association. This transformative event is designed to empower Muslim boys and young men aged 11 to 27 through a comprehensive program of spiritual, physical, and character development.
About the Retreat
The AlQawamun Retreat takes place at a scenic farm in Half Moon Bay, California, offering a serene and conducive environment for personal growth and reflection. Each year, the retreat attracts 60-90 attendees from various parts of California, including the Bay Area and San Francisco, fostering connections and unity within the Muslim community.
Religious & Educational Activities
- Daily prayers (Salat) and Islamic studies sessions
- Rites of passage curriculum (Fatuwaw) for the transition to manhood
- Self-esteem building workshops and circle activities
Physical & Recreational Activities
- Survival techniques and self-defense training
- Boxing, wrestling, and horseback riding
- Archery, RTV/Go Carts, and outdoor adventures
Community Building & Service
- Brotherhood building exercises and team activities
- Special sessions on ethical principles and respect for nature
- CPR/Emergency Response training for life-saving preparedness
Safety First: The AlQawamun Retreat maintains comprehensive safety measures, including liability insurance through Give Go Global/ Deen Sports academy, on-site CPR-trained adults with proper equipment, and established emergency evacuation protocols to ensure the well-being of all participants.
The AlQawamun Retreat exemplifies Amir Rashad's commitment to nurturing the holistic development of young Muslims, providing them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood while remaining grounded in their faith and identity.
Our Programs
Year-Round AAU Basketball and Mentor Program
Deen Team offers a comprehensive year-round AAU basketball and mentor program catering to youth ages 7 to 18. Our program is not confined to seasonal activities but provides continuous engagement and support to young athletes throughout the year. We actively participate in top AAU basketball tournaments in the Bay Area and beyond, ensuring exposure to a diverse audience of 300 to 600 players and spectators per tournament.
Basketball Camps
Deen Sports academy hosts multiple basketball camps throughout the year in various locations across the Bay Area, including:
- Deen Team Camp East Bay
- Deen Team Camp South Bay
- Deen Team Camp San Francisco
- Deen Team Camp Silicon Valley
Masjid Tournaments
We organize special tournaments that bring together mosques from across the Bay Area for a day of spirited competition and community bonding. These events serve as platforms for uniting the Muslim community, promoting sportsmanship, and fostering friendship among participants of all ages.
Our Impact
Improved Physical Fitness
Through regular participation in basketball camps and tournaments, participants experience improved physical health, including increased stamina, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.
Enhanced Teamwork Skills
Deen Sports academy emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, and collaboration both on and off the court. Participants learn how to work together effectively, support one another, and achieve common goals.
Academic Achievements
Research shows that involvement in sports programs like Deen Sports academy can have a positive impact on academic performance. By promoting discipline, time management, and goal-setting skills, our program helps participants excel academically.
Social Integration
Deen Sports academy serves as a platform for social integration, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Leadership Development
Many participants of Deen Sports academy go on to become leaders in their schools, communities, and professional careers, equipped with the leadership skills and confidence gained through our program.
Spiritual Growth
Our program integrates principles from Islamic teachings to help young athletes develop not just physically, but spiritually, fostering character development and ethical behavior.