Today we’d like to introduce you to Raul Duany.
Raul, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started coaching my son in different sports (basketball, baseball, flag football, etc,) when he was four years old starting with t-ball. As he became more interested in playing competitively, we looked for different alternatives for basketball where we could maintain kids together to play on the same team, rather than having different coaches and players each season.
As we searched the area, we realized there was an opportunity to start an academy that could help us subsidize the cost of indoor gym use and be able to host practices for our children in the community. I formally started Miami Dynasty in February of 2016 and we now have nearly 70 kids 5-17 years old participating in different teams, leagues and tournaments.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The growth has been dramatic and overwhelming within a very short time. It has taken a lot of attention details, logistics and organization. I never intended for the organization to become so large, but rather founded it with the intention of keeping a core group of kids together focused on athletics and staying off the streets.
Miami Dynasty Basketball – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Miami Dynasty Basketball is a nonprofit 501c3 youth basketball program affiliated with the Amateur Athletic Union of the U.S. Inc. (AAU). It was formally established in February 2016. The program is home-based at Divine Savior Academy in Doral, Florida.
The purpose of the Academy is to offer basketball training through volunteers to help develop Doral kids ages 5-18 years old for recreational and competitive leagues and keep our kids off the streets.
Practices focus on basketball fundamentals, speed, agility and conditioning. All practices are held indoors at Divine Savior Academy. We adhere to the principles of the Positive Coaching Alliance and the American Coaches Association.
96 boys and girls ages 5-18 (81 Doral residents; 6 of other 15 attend Doral schools). Nearly 400 Doral residents are part of the Dynasty family attend Doral Academy, Dr. Rolando Espinosa, Eugenia B. Thomas, Divine Savior Academy, Columbus, Belen, St. Brendan’s, Doral Middle School, John I. Smith, Renaissance, Ronald Reagan, Shelton Academy, and Doral International Math and Science Academy
Most proud of helping 19 economically-disadvantaged children are fully (or in part) funded by Dynasty; $30,115 in discounts and grants assistance to families.
Fundamentals – Our focus at Miami Dynasty is on the fundamentals of the game.
Positive Coaching – Help our children get the most out of competitive sports, we redefine what it means to be a “winner.” Winners are people who:
• Make maximum effort.
• Continue to learn and improve.
• Refuse to let mistakes (or fear of making mistakes) stop them.
Honor The Game – “Roots”
Rules: Don’t bend the rules to win.
Opponents: A worthy opponent is an opportunity to play to highest potential.
Officials: Treat officials with respect.
Teammates: Never embarrass the team.
Self: Live up to our own standards regardless of what others do.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Be passionate but diligent and reliable on everything you do. Over communicate and do the best you can to manage kids and parent’s expectations.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.miamidynastybasketball.com
- Email: miadynastybball@gmail.com
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
