Mike Ross

 Founder & CEO

Biography: Mike Ross

 The Life of Mike Ross

Mike Ross's journey is one marked by an unyielding drive for excellence, both athletically and in the business realm. A recognized leader whose influence shapes national powerhouse companies and championship sports teams alike, Ross has earned a reputation for turning the dreams of organizations into tangible success.

Early Life and Education

Born and raised in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, Mike Ross developed a fierce loyalty to his hometown and its sports teams. His enthusiasm for sports dovetailed with his academic pursuits, leading him to Kent State University. There, he not only completed a degree in Mathematics but also demonstrated his athletic prowess by playing basketball and baseball at the collegiate level—a precursor to his future dual career in sports and business.

A Record of Achievement

Ross's leadership skills came to the fore as he entered the business world. His company, reflecting his dedication to service and design excellence, has swept the Houzz National Design & Service Awards 13 times. Under his stewardship, the company was etched into the national landscape as a "Top 500 Company" 8 times over and has appeared and featured on TV show Million Dollar Listing.

In the athletic arena, Mike wielded his coaching acumen to lead his teams to staggering heights: 3 National Titles, 7 State Championships, and a whopping 64 Tournament Championships. His mentorship has ushered over 60 players to the next level of their sports careers.

Championing Future Generations

With a clear vision for supporting young talent, Ross founded the ConNEXTions Foundation, a 501c3 organization dedicated to mentoring student-athletes. This global non-profit harnesses Mike's vast experience to provide holistic preparation for collegiate athletics and beyond. Sports have always been a gateway to personal growth, resilience and achievement. For aspiring male or female athletes, the dream of participating in collegiate athletics and reaching even greater heights is within reach. That's where ConNEXTions Foundation steps in. This dynamic non-profit organization was created with one mission in mind - to provide comprehensive support to under-represented, underprivileged and/or asset restricted athletes. Student-Athletes with potential to participate in collegiate athletics and beyond who are ready to take their skills to the next level! Led by Mr. Ross, the foundation provides scholarship guidance, elite skills training, Mental Sports Performance Sessions, Nutrition, rehabilitation, public speaking, entrepreneurship training, branding and financial management. The goal for each student/athlete mentored by Mike Ross is to receive a college degree and accumulate enough savings during college to purchase a house upon graduation – thus changing the family dynamic for future generations!

Diverse Roles in Sports Management

Beyond coaching, Mike extended his expertise into the front office as General Manager for the Ohio Aviators, where he fused his love for sports with sharp business acuity. In this role, Ross tackled team assembly, managed salaries, and nurtured player development, with the ultimate goal of propelling athletes to the NBA. Currently, Mr.Ross is on the Athletic Board of Trustees @ Pepperdine University.

Servant Leadership

A life of service defines Mike's roles beyond corporate and athletic leadership. As a member of the University Board & Athletic Board @ Pepperdine University and the LA5 Rotary Board of Trustees, Ross contributes his expertise to humanitarian projects, including efforts to eradicate cervical cancer in women worldwide and provide clean water systems in Africa to remote tribal communities. In addition, Mike is a member of the Athletes Touch National Networking Group for previous college & professional athletes.

Media and Mentorship

Mike's impact on sports and business caught the attention of high-profile platforms, leading to his participation in Lebron James's Top Class Docuseries and collaboration with Olympian Allyson Felix in launching Saysh, her new shoe line. Ross's valuable insights helped navigate the challenges of entrepreneurial ventures in the competitive sports industry.

Personal Life

Mike attributes his success to the foundational values instilled by his parents, Norm and Gloria: accountability, loyalty, honesty, and hard work. These principles guide his ambition to excel locally, nationally, and globally.

Above all, Mike cherishes being a father to his three daughters, Christine, Laura, and Jami, and a partner to his wife, Barbara, a talented screenwriter. His family life remains the core of his immense achievements.

Legacy and Influence

Mike Ross's tale is one of continuous striving—not for personal accolades, but to uplift individuals and communities through sports and service. His legacy is etched in the lives he has shaped and the standards of excellence he has set in every arena he touches. Mike exemplifies the spirit of a leader whose commitment extends far beyond the boardroom and the playing field.