In Youngstown, Ohio, a group of dedicated community leaders has come together to create an impactful youth sports program that not only nurtures athletic talent but also fosters personal growth and academic excellence. By combining their efforts, Darius Javey, Louis Jones, and Troy Williams have established the Ohio Chaney Cowboys, a multifaceted initiative aimed at providing opportunities for children from diverse backgrounds.

Empowering Youth Through Sports and Mentorship

From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Organization

Darius Javey’s journey in Youngstown is a testament to the power of community support. Growing up in the city, Javey attended Eagle Heights Academy for middle school before moving on to East High School. In 2010, he graduated from the Mahoning Valley Opportunity Center and now works as a laborer for the Youngstown Water Department. His involvement in sports during his youth played a pivotal role in shaping his life. Reflecting on his experiences, Javey credits the positive influence of his coaches for guiding him away from challenging circumstances and fostering a healthier mindset.In 2019, Javey and his fiancée, Timqueta Hamilton, embarked on a mission to give back to the community by establishing a youth football league. While Javey focused on interacting with the children and their parents, Hamilton took on the critical task of conducting research and handling administrative duties behind the scenes. Their collaboration resulted in the formation of the Midwest Bengals, a traveling youth football team.

A Fusion of Visions: Expanding Horizons

The Ohio Chaney Cowboys emerged from the merging of two distinct visions. Louis Jones had been coaching the Little Chaney Cowboys, while Troy Williams had been leading the Youngstown Pride basketball team since 2010. Recognizing the potential for synergy, they joined forces to create a more comprehensive program. This integration allowed them to offer a wider range of sports activities, including baseball, track, and wrestling, to over 163 children aged 6 to 11.The expanded organization benefits from access to high school facilities such as the football field and gym, thanks to the support of Chaney High School’s athletic director, Nick Sferra. This partnership not only enhances the quality of training but also serves as a feeder system for future athletes in Youngstown schools.

Creating Opportunities for All

One of the core principles of the Ohio Chaney Cowboys is inclusivity. The Rec league welcomes all participants, regardless of skill level, with an emphasis on participation and enjoyment. Meanwhile, the National league offers a more competitive environment for advanced players who compete against teams across the country. The program’s reach extends beyond Youngstown, with Javey personally transporting children from Warren and treating them as part of his extended family.Louis Jones, who admits to making mistakes in his youth, finds fulfillment in steering kids away from negative influences. “I try to deter kids from going down the route I chose,” he explained. For Jones, coaching provides both personal satisfaction and a platform to positively impact young lives. He recalls the thrill of coaching at Ohio Stadium, an experience that left a lasting impression on both him and the players.

Molding Future Leaders

For Javey, the true value of the program lies in its ability to shape better sons, daughters, and scholars. He takes pride in witnessing the continuous improvement of the children, both physically and academically. “Seeing them get better every day and smarter every day” is what drives him to keep pushing forward.Troy Williams echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of keeping youth on the right path. “You know the type of things that can happen to a youth, so we try to keep them on the straight and narrow and show them different things so they can have a better future.”

Sustaining Growth Through Community Support

Operating a program of this scale requires significant financial resources. Fundraising events are held throughout the year to cover travel and equipment costs. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Ohio Chaney Cowboys rely on donations and community support to sustain their operations. Interested supporters can find them on Facebook under Ohio Chaney Cowboys or contact Javey directly at 330-951-9203.The collective efforts of Javey, Jones, Williams, and countless volunteers exemplify the belief that it truly takes a village to build a strong, resilient community. Through sports and mentorship, they are not only developing athletes but also nurturing the next generation of leaders.