The Coach Kirk Foundation
Meet The Board

Meet Our President
Ryan Piersza
President
Quick About: Local sports advocate. Former Division I athlete. Dedicated to youth mentorship and mental health.
Full Bio
Ryan Piersza’s lifelong connection to youth sports and the local community drives his commitment to building opportunities for young people. As President, he believes mentorship, teamwork, and inclusion are key for helping kids thrive. Ryan competed in three sports in high school and played Division I football at Bryant University, giving him firsthand insight into how athletics can shape lives and support mental health.
Ryan works professionally as a Business Intelligence Analyst and graduated with honors from Bryant University with a degree in Data Science and a minor in Business Administration, adding valuable expertise to the organization’s vision. He was coached from sixth grade through high school by Coach Jimmy Kirk, whose influence continues to guide his approach to service and youth development. Ryan is focused on empowering the next generation and helping kids realize their potential.

Meet Our Vice President
Stacie Martin
Vice President
Quick About:
20+ years in Jacksonville. Leadership coach. Committed to empowering youth and building community.
Full Bio
Stacie Martin is a purpose-driven leader with a passion for empowering others, especially the next generation. As Vice President, she coaches and consults leaders to amplify their impact, blending strategic insight with a genuine heart for people. With over 20 years of experience in the Jacksonville area, Stacie brings strong community ties and a collaborative spirit to every endeavor.
Her leadership style is rooted in empathy, growth, and legacy, which aligns closely with the mission of youth development. As a mother of four, including one whose memory continues to inspire her, Stacie understands the transformative power of nurturing potential and leading with intention. Her focus is always on building a brighter future for youth.

Meet Our Treasurer
Mary Kay Kirk
Treasurer
Quick About: 28-year school district bookkeeper. Lifelong youth volunteer. Believes every dollar should go to the kids.

Meet Our Vice President of Youth Programs
Jacob Cutler
Vice President of Youth Programs
Jacob Cutler is a Commercial Insurance Advisor and former multi-sport high school athlete and Division III football player whose lifelong experience playing and coaching youth sports fuels his passion for building kids’ confidence through constant encouragement and positive reinforcement.
Full Bio
I have had a lifelong connection to youth sports between playing and coaching which drives my passion for helping the next generation. I believe that constant encouragement and positive reinforcement is a great way to build not only the confidence of young kids, but help them to believe anything is possible. I competed in 2 sports in high school and played Division III football at Lake Forest College, which gives me a deep understanding for how sports can shape lives for not just myself, but others too.
I work professionally as a Commercial Insurance Advisor and graduated with honors from Lake Forest College with a degree in Economics and a minor in Computer Science. I was coached by Coach Jimmy Kirk for 3 years in high school, but was taught and mentored by him from 6th through 12th grade. He had great leadership and passion for the younger generation. His lessons continue to motivate me to have a positive impact on young people the same way he did for me.