About Us
The Legacy on the Diamond: The Story of ATL MLSA
In the competitive world of youth sports, many programs focus solely on batting averages and scouting reports. However, in the heart of Atlanta, the ATL MLSA (Metro Leadership Sports Academy) baseball program has spent decades proving that the diamond is actually a classroom for leadership, a sanctuary for the underserved, and a bridge to higher education. This summer leadership initiative was developed with a singular, transformative goal: to provide educational guidance and life mentorship to young men from inner-city and under-resourced backgrounds who dream of greatness both on and off the field.
A Foundation of Faith and Service
The program’s roots are deeply personal, anchored in the life’s work of Reverend John W. Hollins, Sr., known to many simply as “COACH.” For decades, Reverend Hollins dedicated his summers to the young men of the Kirkwood and DeKalb areas. He understood that idle time posed a risk for youth in these neighborhoods, so he used baseball as an intervention, keeping them engaged, disciplined, and out of trouble.In 1999, the community suffered a major blow when Coach Hollins passed away following a stroke. Seeking to honor his father’s profound legacy, John Hollins Jr. took up the mantle. In 2002, he founded the DC Bombers in memory of his father. A critical early partner in this mission was The Paideia School, where John Jr. coached. The school provided a field where inner-city kids and Paideia students could train together—a partnership that broke down socioeconomic barriers and allowed young men from different walks of life to find common ground through sport.
Leadership Through Diversity
John Hollins Jr. brings a unique perspective to the program, shaped by his own collegiate experiences. He believed that for his players to succeed in the modern business world, they needed to be comfortable in a diverse environment. He intentionally moved toward a multi-cultural roster, viewing America as a “melting pot” where different cultures must learn to collaborate to achieve a common goal.By fostering a diverse team environment, the program prepares these young men to be productive citizens, future supervisors, and business owners. It teaches them to look past color and culture, focusing instead on the shared objectives that unite us all.
A Record of Success
The impact of ATL MLSA is best measured by the lives it has changed. To date, the program has helped over 350 students gain admission to college and has seen 30+ players reach the professional ranks. This success is built on a foundation of “academics first,” discipline, and unrelenting hard work. Unlike many modern “pay-to-play” travel ball organizations, John Hollins Jr. does not seek a profit. He volunteers his time and leverages his professional network to ensure the kids receive elite instruction at no or minimal cost.ATL MLSA remains a beacon of hope, proving that with the right guidance, the baseball field can be a launching pad for a lifetime of success.