Trench mob
We're focused on youth development through training, mentoring and coaching.
The Battle of the Trenches Foundation (BOTF) was created to help at risk youths develop into positive young men through coaching, character building, football, life skills, and mentoring. BOTF was established in 2015 by NFL Alumni Julius Williams, and 2x Super Bowl Champion Anthony Smith. Our team consists of many professional athletes and corporate professionals that reflect the community.
BOTF seeks to acquire funding through sponsorships, grants and corporate partnerships so that we may continue to provide professional level coaching and mentoring to the most underserved youth. Creatively and strategically combining NFL style training programs with mentoring and character-building curriculums; we seek to increase accountability, academic excellence, and athletic scholarships awarded to participants in our programs. We believe that combining team sports and life skills training can provide athletes with valuable lessons in character, perseverance, teamwork and sportsmanship.
Meet The Team
Julius Williams
CEO/Chairman
Julius Williams is a 7 year veteran of the NFL and CFL from Decatur, Ga. Like many young men who gravitate towards football and other team sports, Julius started from humble beginnings. Despite these humble beginnings, Julius was able to use football to take his talents to the next level. A 3-year starter at the University of Connecticut, football has taken Julius places he could have only imagined. Since retiring, Julius has made an unbridled commitment to making an impact on at-risk youth through football and mentorship.
Anthony Smith
General Manager/Vice Chairman
Anthony Smith is a 6 year veteran of the NFL. Hailing from Youngstown, OH Anthony has used his talents to become a champion on and off the field. A 4-year starter at Syracuse University, football gave him an opportunity to go places and meet people he could have only imagined. A two time Super Bowl Champion, Anthony has committed to using his love of football and various skill sets to help develop young men through sports and mentorship.
Michael Suarez
COO/PR & Marketing Director
Michael Suarez is an 12-year sports marketing executive from Fresno, CA. Specializing in public relations and professional sports marketing, Michael has worked with organizations such as the Atlanta Hawks, the NFL Alumni Association and over 50 MLB, NBA and NFL athletes. Since attending Trinidad University in Pueblo, Colorado, Michael has used his talents to bring character building and life skills programs through mentoring and team sports to underserved communities.
Jermaine McElveen
Director of Football Operations
Jermaine McElveen is a 7 year veteran of the NFL and CFL. Hailing from Chicago, IL, Jermaine used football to earn a scholarship to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Unlike most top football recruits, Jermaine overcame many academic challenges to eventually get signed as an unrestricted free agent to the Tennessee Titans. A three-time Grey Cup champion in the CFL, Jermaine has dedicated his time during retirement to developing meaningful football programs.