GRIND
6th - 8th Grade
Grind is our daytime program geared towards middle school athletes. The focus of this program will be high-level athletic and sports excellence through both foundational repetition and more specific individual skill acquisition. These athletes will be pushed to accelerate their athletic development beyond foundations to become elite athletes at a young level. We will advance their basketball IQ through small-sided games and specific basketball scenarios.
TRACK 1 - ACADEMICS and BASKETBALL
Our academic and basketball program is a full-time track designed for 6th to 8th graders that combines academics and athletics in a structured, supportive environment. Students complete their academic coursework in the morning through Gem Prep Online, with the guidance of Conner VanDyken, our in-person educator. Conner helps keep students on task, supports organization, and facilitates communication between students, parents, and teachers—ensuring each student stays on track academically while developing independent learning skills.
Gem Prep Online is a high-quality, accredited online school that offers a flexible, personalized learning experience for students. It’s designed to challenge learners while allowing them to work at their own pace, making it a great fit for student-athletes. We highly encourage our families to participate in the Gem Prep program, but we are also happy to support those who prefer a different academic path. If you have specific questions about Gem Prep Online, you can reach out to Heather McKenna at heathermckenna@gemprep.org or visit gemprep.org
In the afternoon, the focus shifts to athletic development. Athletes participate in basketball-specific training, including core strengthening, skill development, and group workouts led by EDGE’s experienced trainers. Training is designed to enhance athletic performance while promoting teamwork, discipline, and confidence.
TRACK 2 - BASKETBALL ONLY
Track 2 of the GRIND program is a sports-only option designed for athletes who want to focus solely on their basketball development. Students will come to the gym from 12:00-3:30pm. During this time, athletes will participate in core basketball workouts, performance training, and group training sessions led by EDGE’s expert trainers. This program provides a focused, high-level training environment for students to hone their skills, improve their athletic performance, and take their game to the next level. This would be a great program for families who already have an established alternative curriculum or students interested in dual enrollment with their local school.
SAMPLE SCHEDULE
