About AM ELITE

In a quiet Utah neighborhood, a young immigrant boy named Aristide discovered his passion for basketball early on in Utah. As a child, Aristide knew he wanted to be an athlete. He tried soccer but quickly realized it was not his sport. He soon found basketball and fell in love with the game. He could express himself with a basketball in ways he had not previously imagined. This revelation would be pivotal to Aristide's journey and his lifelong relationship with the sport.

Growing up in a large family with limited resources, Aristide’s path was never easy. With his father working multiple jobs and the heartache of losing his mother at a young age, opportunities to pursue organized sports were scarce. Instead, he honed his skills on neighborhood courts, often playing against older and bigger kids, learning resilience, determination, and self-belief in the process.

As he advanced through high school, guidance from dedicated coaches and teammates opened doors to more structured play. A stint on a traveling club team eventually led to a college opportunity in New York—a milestone that validated years of hard work and sacrifice. Yet, despite his achievements, Aristide never forgot the challenges he once faced.

Upon returning to Utah, Aristide reconnected with his best friend Max, with whom he shared a deep passion for basketball and a commitment to community. Together, they began training and coaching youth basketball players of all ages and abilities, offering guidance and support to those navigating their own challenges. Inspired by the impact they witnessed in young athletes—from various backgrounds and economic situations—they decided to build something lasting. Thus, AM Elite was born: a club dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where young players can build skills, compete at high levels of youth basketball, and forge relationships that extend far beyond the court.