Celebrating the Asphalt Green Community for Black History Month!
When Shirod Ince first started working as a Recess Enhancement Program coach ten years ago, he didn’t think he would be Asphalt Green Basketball’s Director of Player Development over a decade later. But from the beginning, Shirod’s gift for instilling a passion for athletics, fostering inclusive environments, and nurturing young athletes’ potential made his journey to Asphalt Green feel like destiny.
When Isaiah Sanders first found AGUA Masters to continue his passion for swimming, he didn’t expect to find a community that would become some of his closest friends. But their shared passions and AGUA’s supportive environment continue to help Isaiah find joy and success, in and out of the pool.
As we continue our Black History Month celebrations, we honor Shirod and Isaiah’s remarkable journeys with Asphalt Green. Read on to learn about the amazing impact they’ve made– on the court, in the pool and beyond.
Shirod Ince
Can you tell us about your journey at Asphalt Green?
I started at Asphalt Green as a REP coach with the Recess Enhancement Program. I worked my way up to being a training coach, where I trained schools who didn’t have REP on the REP curriculum. Then, I became a recess coordinator. I oversaw coaches, schools, and then I made the jump to sports and started as a coach. Now I have worked my way up to be director of player development here at Asphalt Green. It’s been a great journey.
What’s your favorite part about being a part of the AG Basketball community?
My favorite part is the development of youth players—seeing where they start, understanding what they need, and then watching them overcome obstacles and execute the things we’ve worked on over time. Seeing that work pay off in competition is everything.
Is there an athlete who has inspired you in your career?
Serena Williams is someone who inspired me. I grew up raised by my mom. I have a daughter. She’s someone who has done a lot for women in sports, and as a Black athlete in general. She’s someone who definitely inspired me throughout my journey as an athlete.
I’m a big Carmelo Anthony fan, but LeBron James is also someone who inspired me through his off the court endeavors and everything he’s done for the game. He showed you can be just as impactful off the court.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
For me, Black History Month means leaving a legacy and educating as many different people as possible on my journey and helping people throughout their journeys, no matter where they are, where they come from. Just making sure that I’m able to help them understand that they can make an impact, no matter how big or small, and, you know, just helping everyone reach their full potential.
Isaiah Sanders
What is your favorite part about swimming with AGUA?
My favorite part about swimming with AGUA is definitely the community. Everyone is invested in helping each other improve. It is inspiring to see teammates push their limits together and share in every success. That energy makes every practice something to look forward to.
Is there a Black athlete who inspires you?
Cullen Jones inspires me a lot. He was part of the U.S. 4×100 m freestyle relay team at the 2008 Olympics, alongside Michael Phelps, Garrett Weber-Gale, and Jason Lezak, which won gold and set a world record. I admire how he made history in a sport where Black swimmers are still underrepresented. His story reminds me that hard work and confidence can break barriers.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
For me, Black History Month is all about connection. It is a time to have real conversations about our history, where we have been, where we are, and where we are going. It is a chance to honor the people who paved the way and to celebrate Black excellence in all its forms. Most of all, it is about learning and lifting each other up.
What are your hopes for the future with AGUA?
I hope AGUA continues to grow as a strong, supportive community that welcomes everyone. I would love to see us start a program like Deepend Fitness, which combines water workouts with mindfulness and teamwork. It is a cool way to connect the physical and mental sides of swimming. I think something like that could bring the team and the broader community even closer together.
