Veteran Sports Philanthropy Leader to Oversee Foundation to Advance Access and Equity in Youth Sports
ATLANTA, GA (August 7, 2025) — The RCX Sports Foundation, the non-profit arm of RCX Sports dedicated to developing, promoting, and implementing diversity and inclusion in youth sports, today announced the appointment of Ericka Newsome as its first Executive Director. In this newly created leader role, Newsome will oversee the Foundation’s mission-driven efforts to expand access to safe, inclusive, and enriching youth sports opportunities nationwide.
A widely respected executive in sports philanthropy and community impact, Newsome will lead investment strategy, program development, and partner engagement—working with major leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, and USTA—to scale community-based programming that fosters physical activity, mentorship, leadership and life skills through sport.
The RCX Sports Foundation serves as the non-profit arm of RCX Sports and focuses on dismantling systemic barriers that prevent young people—especially those in underserved communities—from participating in sports. Through partnerships with professional leagues, community organizations, and philanthropic leaders, the Foundation funds and implements initiatives that make youth sports more accessible, equitable, and impactful.
“The RCX Sports Foundation is addressing some of the biggest barriers that prevent kids from accessing sports,” said Newsome. “I’ve dedicated my career to making sure sports serve as a platform for opportunity, growth, and equity—and I’m honored to carry that mission forward at RCX. Together, we’ll build programs that not only serve communities but also help shape a more inclusive future for youth sports.”
“Ericka brings decades of experience driving meaningful impact through sport and building bridges between leagues, athletes, and communities,” said Izell Reese, CEO of RCX Sports. “Her leadership will be pivotal in scaling our work and advancing our commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to experience the life-changing benefits of sport.”
Prior to joining the RCX Sports Foundation, Newsome served as Director of Community Engagement for the Memphis Grizzlies, where she led education, health, and civic engagement initiatives that positioned the team as a community leader across the Mid-South. Previously, she was Director of Player Engagement for the Atlanta Hawks, where she developed and managed programs focused on community outreach, personal development, and career transition planning for athletes.
Newsome also spent 15 years with the Atlanta Braves, where she served as Director of Community Affairs and Executive Director of the Atlanta Braves Foundation. Under her leadership, the Foundation raised and distributed over $7 million to local nonprofits and launched hallmark initiatives such as the Atlanta Braves Baseball Academy, the Jr. Braves Baseball League, and the Pinch Hitter Youth Baseball Fund—impacting thousands of youth across Georgia.
About RCX Foundation
The RCX Foundation is dedicated to creating more access and equity in youth sports through grants, programming, and partnerships. As the non-profit arm of RCX Sports, the foundation focuses on expanding youth sports opportunities so all children can experience the lifelong benefit of sports. By removing barriers to participation, the Foundation helps young athletes discover confidence, build character, and thrive both on and off the field. For more information, visit https://rcxfoundation.org/.
