Nominate an Athlete for the All State Game

The smell of fresh-cut grass, the rhythmic thud of footballs hitting pads, and the spirited cheers of young athletes remind La’Vale Washington of why he began coaching in the first place. Having recently been appointed as an official coach for the 2025 All State Game, Washington finds himself at the pivotal intersection of passion and purpose—an opportunity that allows him to impact the lives of advanced youth athletes on a grand stage.

Born and raised in New Orleans, Washington’s journey to coaching has been a tapestry woven with dedication, hard work, and community spirit. He honed his skills at St. Augustine High School, where he not only excelled in athletics but also found mentors who shaped his character and ignited his passion for the sport. Continuing his education at the University of Memphis on a full scholarship, Washington pursued degrees in African American History and Sports and Leisure Studies. As his academic journey unfolded, so did his desire to give back to the community that nurtured him.

During his college summers, Washington began mentoring and coaching local youth, planting the seeds of inspiration in young hearts. After graduating, he continued to cultivate these budding talents by coaching park ball, immersing himself in the community and carving a path for the next generation of athletes.

Now, as the head coach for the 12u team at Oakdale Playground and the Defensive Coordinator for the Jefferson Parish Recreation Department (JPRD) All Stars, Washington embodies what it means to be a leader. His coaching philosophy transcends mere strategy; he seeks to instill values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship in his young athletes. Through drills and scrimmages, he teaches them to embrace challenges and view failures as opportunities for growth—a lesson he hopes they will carry not just on the field, but throughout life.

Washington’s recent appointment as a coach for the prestigious All State Game marks a significant milestone not just in his career but also for the youth he mentors. The All State Game provides an unparalleled platform for young athletes, allowing them to unite with other elite players from their towns and counties, representing their communities with pride. This event celebrates talent, and Washington is eager to contribute to that celebration by preparing his young athletes to showcase their skills in front of scouts, coaches, and communities across the state.

“This is more than just a game,” Washington shares. “It’s about building relationships, fostering unity, and preparing these young athletes for the next levels of their life, whether in sports or beyond. It’s an honor to be selected as a coach at this level, and I aim to inspire these talented young men and women to give their best—on and off the field.”

In addition to coaching, Washington has taken tangible steps to ensure that financial constraints do not sideline any aspiring athlete. Through his recently launched nonprofit, JOXforthekids, he is committed to mentoring and training young athletes and providing them with the resources they need to thrive. The organization’s mission aligns with the core values of the All State Game, promoting equal opportunities and ensuring that every accepted athlete can participate without the burden of financial limitations.

Football, to Washington, is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life—an outlet for creativity, a means of self-expression, and a source of strength and resilience. He often reflects on how the lessons learned on the field translate into life’s challenges, preparing young athletes for whatever comes their way. Coaching his two sons, Jaxon and Lenox, further fuels this passion. He views each drill, each game as a cherished moment to build memories that last a lifetime.

As the 2025 All State Game draws near, La’Vale Washington stands ready to guide his athletes through this pivotal experience. He envisions a team brought together not solely by talent, but by a shared commitment to hard work and excellence. Through his leadership, he will undoubtedly inspire not only the players but also the communities they represent, showcasing the power of sport to unite and uplift.

In the grand narrative of youth athletics, Washington is not just a coach; he is a mentor, a role model, and a champion of the spirit of the game. His journey embodies the essence of perseverance, passion, and dedication, echoing the belief that with the right guidance, young athletes can achieve greatness both on the field and in life. As he prepares to step onto the sidelines of the All State Game, Washington is poised to make a lasting impact, shaping the future of young athletes—one play at a time.