Underdog Player Development & Coaching is steeped in mentorship. The mentorship program is called The Coach’s Triangle. With the mentee is the middle, the triangle has every side of them covered. Each point of the triangle represents the Coach, Parents, and IAU, which are the three guiding principles behind I AM UNDERDOG INC.

A mentor plays such a key role for a few different reasons. Seven key components of my mentorship program are as follows:

Become a trusted advisor

Provide knowledge and information

Stimulate both personal and professional growth through encouragement

Identify areas of improvement through conversation

Be a sounding board but provide candid feedback

Be a resource to help grow networks and connections

Provide pathways and blueprints on how to be successful

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Student-athletes will not only be the targets for the Coach's Triangle, but area youth that are currently in the foster care system as well as juvenile offenders.

Mentors will consist of coaches, former athletes, current professional athletes and business professionals.

These mentors that are a part of The COACH'S TRIANGLE aim to be supportive believers of the potential that lies within each mentee. We will help to foster that potential by being present with consistent interaction with our mentees through face-to-face interaction as well as virtual connections through the use of technology. (Facetime, Instagram and other mediums). We live in a new age where interaction and technology are able to intersect so no mentee will be left behind.

Proven Results

Quin Blanding

"During my time at the University of Virginia as a football player, Tony Covington’s mentorship and guidance played a pivotal role in shaping not only my athletic career but also my personal and professional growth. As a fellow UVA football alum, Tony understood the challenges and expectations that came with wearing the blue and orange. He was always there to offer wisdom, encouragement, and tough love when needed, pushing me to be the best version of myself both on and off the field.

Even after my playing days were over, Tony remained a constant source of support. Navigating life after football can be a challenge, but his advice and leadership helped me transition successfully into the next chapter of my career. His influence extended far beyond the game, teaching me the importance of discipline, resilience, and character in everything I do.

If it weren’t for Tony’s mentorship, I wouldn’t be where I am today. His impact on my life is immeasurable, and I’m grateful to call him not just a mentor, but a brother."

“I met T Cov as a 19-year-old college kid through the game of football, but he always preached how to be successful in the game of life. His wisdom and energy helped keep us all on track as we grew into men. And I now have the privilege to call once a mentor now a true friend.”

Darius Jennings

David Dean

“Tony Covington was a guiding light throughout my time at UVA, offering unwavering mental and emotional support when I needed it most. He helped me navigate the challenges of balancing life, academics, and athletics, ensuring I stayed focused on setting myself up for success after football.

In 2020, I made the decision to retire from football and it was a constant battle in working towards finding a new purpose. Tony’s wisdom and encouragement gave me the confidence to embrace change. Through his advice, I focused on the traits that brought me to the highest level of football and utilized them to propel me towards success in my new career. Tony’s mentorship not only shaped my career path but also strengthened my resilience and mindset. I am forever grateful for their impact, as I would not be where I am today without his guidance and belief in me.”