our mission
TO INSPIRE, EMPOWER AND EQUIP YOUNG PEOPLE TO RISE, LEAD AND GROW— NO MATTER WHAT!
Empowering today’s youth
WHO WE ARE
No Matter What Academy is a youth empowerment organization dedicated to helping young people build resilience, character and purpose—no matter what challenges life throws their way. Through dynamic workshops, mentorship programs and unforgettable retreats, we equip youths with the mindset, tools and confidence to rise above peer pressure, self-doubt and fear of failure. Our mission is to inspire the next generation of leaders to stay true to themselves, chase their dreams relentlessly and become forces for good in their communities.
OUR TEAM
COACH DAVE GRAY
Dubbed “The Mister Rogers of Youth Sports” by parents that know him, Coach Dave Gray brings fun & enthusiasm to his programs, camps, assemblies, and team-building events with his upbeat personality.
With his decades-long commitment to community service and outreach, Coach Dave has touched the lives of youth locally, regionally, and nationally. He believes strongly that instilling confidence and building self-esteem in others is a sure-fire way to become the best version of yourself and truly make a positive impact in this world. Coach Dave's story and impact is not just the story of an individual; it really is a testament to the power and the influence of our educators in shaping a child's future. Coach Dave was in the foster system until he arrived at North Allegheny as a young child. In his words: “I can honestly say, without the teachers & coaches I had as a student, I would not be in the position I am today, gifted with the opportunity to guide & mentor the next generation.”
A life-long Pittsburgh resident and 1988 North Allegheny High School graduate, Coach Dave just celebrated the 26th anniversary of the founding of his signature youth sports & recreation company CDG Sports Events. It’s not only the young people who attend his programs who benefit from the CDG Sports experience, Coach Dave is a job-creator for local teens and young adults and teaches the lessons of commitment, hard work, and professionalism to his employees.
Coach Dave is proud to have received the 2023 North Allegheny Distinguished Alumni Spirit Award and the 2016 KDKA Radio Larry Richert’s Hometown Hero Award. He is also a community partner with Allegheny Health Network, raising awareness of the health & wellness needs of the Pittsburgh community.
SPEAKER • COACH • CONSULTANT
COACH MIKE COUNAHAN
A proud Wexford native and North Allegheny graduate, Coach Mike made his mark early as an All-Conference and Fab 22 football standout. He continued his athletic and academic journey at West Virginia Wesleyan College, where he was a three-year team captain, two-time conference champion, and two-time Athletic Hall of Fame inductee—a testament to his leadership and drive.
His passion for sports and mentorship led him into coaching, including:
• 3 years as a college defensive backs coach
• 2 years coaching football and baseball at Marshall Middle School
• 3 years on the North Allegheny varsity football staff, leading defensive backs and outside linebackers through multiple WPIAL playoff runs.
Professionally, Coach Mike brings over a decade of experience as an Account Manager at Cleveland Brothers, balancing his corporate expertise with a deeper calling to serve others.
As a Certified Addiction Intervention Specialist, he works directly with youth and families, providing recovery coaching and leading interventions that spark healing and hope. His mission is rooted in helping young people overcome addiction and reclaim their future.
When he’s not coaching or serving his community, Coach Mike finds joy in health and wellness, mountain biking and spending quality time with his family.