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.
Full Bio
With 28 years of experience as a bookkeeper and financial administrator across several Florida school districts, Mary Kay Kirk brings a deep understanding of the critical role that sound budgeting plays in youth programs. She believes effective financial management means more resources go directly to children, helping us reach and serve more youth in our community.
Mary Kay’s dedication to youth spans 46 years as a summer camp leader, youth coach, basketball referee, and active volunteer for countless organizations. Inspired by the legacy of Coach Jimmy Kirk, she works to instill values of kindness and empathy in young people. She is guided by the belief, “It’s about the kids,” and the principle, “Leave it better than you found it.” Her focus is always on empowering youth and making a lasting impact.
Meet Our Board Member
Carlos Gil
Board Member
Carlos Gil is a dedicated Northeast Florida native committed to giving back through mentorship, leadership, and community service, inspiring young people to discover their strengths and pursue their potential.
Full Bio
Carlos Gil is a lifelong resident of Northeast Florida who believes in the power of community, mentorship, and opportunity. Growing up surrounded by supportive coaches, teachers, and neighbors, he learned early on how much guidance and encouragement can shape a young person’s future. Now, he’s passionate about giving that same support back—helping the next generation discover their strengths and find purpose both on and off the field.
As a young professional in real estate, Carlos has seen how teamwork and leadership extend far beyond sports. He’s dedicated to creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and motivated to grow. His goal is to be a positive example for youth in his community, showing that hard work, kindness, and perseverance can open doors for anyone willing to put in the effort.