Jimmy Banks Academy
About Us
The Jimmy Banks Academy was birthed from the inspiring success story of the late Jimmy Banks™, a renowned USMNT Soccer Icon, Mentor, Community Advocate, and Milwaukee Native.After his passing, the children of Jimmy Banks, Demetrius "Dee" Banks Sr., J.C. Banks, and Jordan Banks established the Jimmy Banks Academy (J.B.A.), to honor his memory in community, education, mentorship, and soccer.Jimmy Banks™ was an American soccer defender who played for the Milwaukee Wave and more notably, was one of the first two African-American men to represent the United States National Team. He was born on September 2, 1964, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and passed away on April 26, 2019, in the same city.Banks began his soccer career at The Salvation Army - Citadel at the age of 6. Growing up in the Westlawn Housing Projects and attending the Silver Spring Neighborhood Center, Jimmy's passion for soccer was nurtured from a young age. Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, he continued to refine his skills on the field. At Custer High School, Banks earned numerous honors, including the prestigious McDonald's All-American Award. Jimmy continued to hone his craft at Milwaukee Kickers and the Bavarian Soccer Clubs. Banks played college soccer at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he was a forward/midfield star on the men's soccer team and was co-captain his senior year.Jimmy earned 35 caps with the national team between 1986 and 1991, including two games at the 1990 FIFA World Cup. After retiring from playing professionally, Banks remained deeply involved in youth mentorship, community outreach, and soccer development. Banks served as Director of Athletics at Mary Ryan Boys & Girls Club, entered the coaching ranks with youth clubs (Jimmy Banks Soccer Camp and Simba’s Soccer Team), and later as the Head Coach of the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) Men's Soccer Team, leaving his imprint on the hearts of each individual impacted by his life.In 2022, Milwaukee Public Schools renamed Custer Stadium to honor Banks.Our mission at Jimmy Banks Academy (J.B.A.) is to continue his legacy by using the power of soccer as a catalyst to equip and empower underserved youth ages 5 - 17 with essential life skills. Our programs integrate physical fitness, educational goal-setting, and impactful mentorship that positively influence the lives of young people. Sports, physical activity, education, and mentorship transform lives, nurture communities, and cultivate responsible citizens.
The Academy
Our 3-pillar program focuses on the critical needs of youth in our community. We provide inclusive programming that encourages regular physical fitness, healthy nutrition, and social habits, educational goal-setting, literacy, mentorship, and fun. The staff comprises experienced soccer coaches, mentors, educators, and trained volunteers dedicated to helping bring out the untapped potential of every child.Soccer Academy
This program consists of camps, clinics, and classes that focus on developing soccer skills, physical fitness, and healthy nutrition awareness, using soccer to advance life skills. (June - August)"4"Ward Education Academy
This component is designed to help youth pursue their educational goals and financial literacy awareness. It's never too early for our kids and youth to plan for higher education and economic stability. (September - November)“Class Act“ Mentorship Academy
Programming focuses on personal and social development. (Included in all academies)
The excitement and growth this summer was great! From soccer drills to mentorship talks, our youth were not
just learning soccer skills and exercise techniques; but they built character, confidence, made and set goals,
learned about being a "Class Act", developed teamwork, received literacy books for home, and daily healthy
lunches were distributed to ensure we developed the whole child.We are so proud of the kids and grateful to all the coaches, interns, sponsors, volunteers, and parent/guardians
who made this year's academy possible, as we work together to shape the future of the next generation of youth
and honor the legacy of Jimmy Banks!
Sponsored by:
Additional Partners:
Jimmy Banks Memorial Stadium
Ribbon Cutting & Mural Unveiling Celebration!June 9, 2025
2025 April PBS Black Nouveau Broadcast
featuring Jimmy Banks!
Keeping Kids Warm and Empowered This Winter!
Thanks to our incredible sponsor, Operation Warm, we proudly provided over 100 youth in our community with brand-new winter coats, ensuring they stay warm and protected this season. Alongside the giveaway, families also received information about our soccer programs, education goal-setting initiatives, and mentorship opportunities.On December 6, 2024, we hosted the coat distribution at Barack Obama School of Career and Technology Education (formerly Custer High School). This location holds a special place in our hearts, as it’s where our inspiration, the late Jimmy Banks, attended high school and made history as a McDonald's All-American soccer star.We are grateful for the opportunity to honor Jimmy’s legacy while supporting our community. Together, we’re empowering youth to thrive both on and off the field!
💰 Making Money Moves for a Brighter Future!
Summer and fall of 2024, our "4"Ward Education Academy hosted the "Make Money Moves" Financial Literacy 8-week course, empowering participants to master essential financial skills and take charge of their economic futures.A huge thank you to NoCode Clarity for their incredible support in making this course a success! Together, we’re building the foundation for financial confidence and stability in our youth.
2024 Soccer Academy
Participants received the opportunity to advance their essential life skills in a fun environment that integrated soccer skill development, physical fitness, and healthy nutrition awareness, empowering the next generation of youth to thrive!The soccer academy, which took place this spring and summer, was a resounding success. It showcased the inspiring power of soccer, not only as a sport but as a tool for personal growth and development. Participants developed their technical skills, learned the importance of teamwork, and set achievable goals throughout the program.Additionally, the academy provided valuable mentorship, guiding youth on and off the field. The experience cultivated essential life skills such as communication, discipline, and perseverance, leaving a lasting impact on all participants.
Make A Donation
One of the great pleasures for Jimmy Banks Academy Inc. is expressing our heartfelt appreciation for the acts of kindness extended to us.Thanks to our generous partners and sponsors, we can continue our mission of supporting underserved youth in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, and Waukesha Counties. Our programming focuses on soccer, education goal-setting, financial literacy, essential life skills, and mentorship, ensuring young individuals have access to quality programming.If you would like to contribute and help us make a difference, please consider donating by clicking the "Donate Now" button below.
Your support plays a vital role in empowering the young people in our community. Together, we can create a brighter future for these deserving individuals.For any inquiries or further assistance, please contact La Toya Wimpie at (414) 323-2338.
Board of Directors
Demetrius “Dee” Banks Sr.
Executive Director
La Toya Wimpie
Board Member
Executive Secretary
Jordan Banks
Board Member
Treasurer
Jimmy "J.C." Banks Jr.
Board Member
Soccer Academy Coordinator
Christopher Perceptions
Board Member
Communications & PR Coordinator
Educational Coordinator
Datherene Gant
Board Member
Kenneth Gold Jr.
Board Member
Contact Us
For press or general inquiries, please complete the following form and we will respond to you within 48 hours.
© 2025 Jimmy Banks Academy, Inc. All rights reserved. The name Jimmy Banks™ is a registered trademarks of the Jimmy Banks Academy Inc. The name Jimmy Banks™, on paper, printed matter, photographs, drawings, logos, media, other materials, and clothing are registered trademarks of the Jimmy Banks Academy Inc. Click the "Trademarks" link below for additional trademark information.