Executive Director

Salisbury High School, class of 2011

UNC Chapel Hill, class of 2015

Romar Morris is a Salisbury, North Carolina native and proud graduate of Salisbury High School. He earned his degree in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he also excelled as a student-athlete. Following his collegiate career, Romar went on to play professional football with the New York Jets and in the Canadian Football League. His exceptional accomplishments on the field earned him induction into the Rowan County Sports Hall of Fame.

After concluding his professional athletic career, Romar returned to his hometown with a mission to make a meaningful impact. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Next Generation Academy, an organization dedicated to empowering youth through exposure to new experiences in sports, academics, and faith.

In addition to his work with NGA, Romar co-owns Crown’s Recovery Zone—a wellness and recovery center in downtown Salisbury—alongside his wife, Chelsea Morris. Together, they focus on promoting holistic health and healing within the community.

Romar is deeply committed to uplifting the next generation. His passion lies in creating access, opportunities, and pathways for young people to thrive—both on and off the field—while investing in the long-term strength and success of the Salisbury community he proudly calls home.

Director of Athletics

Salisbury High School, class of 2011

University of Charleston, class of 2015

Salisbury Hornet’s starting quarterback in the 2010 2AA State Championship, John continued his career playing professionally for the Swedish American Football Federation. Knox is dedicated to leveraging students of Rowan County to be outstanding people in pursuit of a future that reaches beyond football!

Director of Academics and Nutrition

UNC Chapel Hill, class of 2014

Chelsea Morris, the Director of Academics and Nutrition, was born and raised in Roanoke Rapids, NC. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she attained a degree in Exercise and Sport Science and later received her BSN via North Carolina A&T’s Accelerated Nursing Program. She is currently a Critical Care Registered Nurse. A part of Teach for America’s 2014 Cohort, Chelsea taught high school Math, Biology, Spanish, and World History. She is also founder of Crowns Health & Recovery.

“I love people. It is my ultimate desire to use the gifts God has blessed me with to bless others.”

Director of Football

Livingstone College, class of 2015

Organization Administrator & Liaison

Catawba College, class of 2015

Director of Track & Field

Clemson University & Arkansa State