“I first met Coach Aubin Goporo while recruiting one of his players at Florida Air Academy, and I quickly came to enjoy the way he not only developed talent but shaped young men of strong character and faith. He later joined my staff at the University of Tennessee, where his heart for serving others continued to shine.
Through the St. George Sports Foundation, Aubin is leading a powerful mission; using basketball to uplift youth, instill values, and bring hope, especially to underserved children in Africa. His work providing shoes and mentorship reflects the kind of love and purpose we’re all called to live out.
I’m proud to support Coach Goporo and the impact he’s making. His faith and compassion are evident in everything he does.”
Rick Barnes
University of Tennessee, Head Coach
“I have had the privilege of knowing Coach Aubin Goporo for twenty-two years as a coach, but also as an individual whose commitment to making a meaningful impact extends well beyond the basketball court. Coach Goporo has been steadfast in his dedication to community engagement and youth development, exemplified through his work with the St. George Sports Foundation. In an era that desperately needs leaders invested in impacting our youth, Coach Goporo stands out as an exemplary model. His efforts reflect a rare blend of integrity, vision and purpose that is urgently needed today. I fully support his vision through the St. George Sports Foundation.”
Tom Izzo
University of Michigan State, Head Coach
“I’ve known Coach Aubin Goporo as a leader who brings heart, vision, and dedication to every young person he encounters. Through the St. George Sports Foundation, he has created a movement that harnesses the power of sports to shape character, build confidence, and inspire hope.
What makes Coach Goporo truly exceptional is his deep compassion, and especially his mission to provide basketball shoes to youth in Africa. For many of these children, a simple pair of shoes opens the door to opportunity, belonging, and belief in themselves.
Coach Goporo is changing lives, and I wholeheartedly support his vision. I have no doubt that his impact will continue to ripple across communities for generations to come.”
Bill Self
University of Kansas, Head Coach
“Coach Aubin Goporo is someone I met over 20 years ago when I watched him win a state title in Florida. My respect and admiration for him have only grown since then, because he is so much more than a great basketball coach, he's a great leader of people, someone who genuinely cares about his players both on and off the court.
Coach Goporo is clearly a winner on the court (his win/loss record is phenomenal), and now, as he shifts his focus toward the world of philanthropy, I have no doubt that his winning ways will continue. Those in need will benefit from his vision, dedication, and deep sense of empathy. Coach Aubin Goporo is now pursuing the biggest wins of his career, the most important victories any of us can achieve: wins that truly benefit people!”
Charles Davis
Analyst, NFL on CBS and NFL Network
"I’ve known Coach Aubin Goporo since my coaching days at the University of South Florida, and we’ve remained friends ever since. I wish him continued success with his latest endeavor, founding the St. George Sports Foundation.
Through their dedicated work, the foundation provides young people with basketball shoes, mentorship, leadership training, and life-changing resources that go far beyond the game. These tools empower youth not only to excel on the court but to grow into confident, capable individuals off the court as well.
Their commitment to youth development, in Denver and across Africa, is creating real hope and opportunity.
I’m proud to support the St. George Sports Foundation and grateful for the way they inspire young people to dream big and pursue those dreams with purpose and courage."
Seth Greenberg
ESPN Analyst & Broadcaster
“I’ve known Coach Aubin Goporo since our days back in Florida, when he was building something special at Florida Air Academy. From the start, it was clear that his love for the game was matched only by his deep passion for helping young people grow. I watched him pour his heart into developing not just players, but strong, confident individuals prepared for life beyond basketball.
Now, through the St. George Sports Foundation, Coach Goporo is carrying that same spirit forward; creating opportunities for kids both locally and abroad. His mission to provide basketball shoes for youth in Africa is a powerful example of how he continues to serve with purpose and heart.
Aubin has always led with love, faith, integrity, and a strong belief in the power of sport to inspire and uplift. I’m proud to support his foundation and truly wish him continued success in all that he does.”
Anthony Grant
University of Dayton, Head Coach
“Coach Goporo has a wealth of experience at both the high school and college levels. Having recruited and coached one of his players, I can say that his guidance and mentorship extend beyond the basketball court. Coach Goporo is deeply committed to helping young people, and the St. George Sports Foundation thrives under his leadership.”
Herb Sendek
University of Santa Clara, Head Coach
I fondly remember the gifted young athletes who trained at the (Centre National de Basketball), located in Bangui, Central African Republic, next to the office of the national Basketball Federation. These athletes epitomized dedication and excellence.
In 1980, the urgent task at hand was to rebuild the junior national team for the final phase of the African Basketball Championship in Luanda, Angola. Under the leadership of Coach Christopher Pound, the vision extended beyond immediate competition—it was about shaping these juniors into the future of the national team.
Among these promising athletes were three young players: Fred Goporo, Anicet Lavodrama, and Bruno Kongawoin. Skillfully nurtured, they eventually earned opportunities to play for prestigious American universities. This trio became the cornerstone of the national team that clinched the African Championship title in 1987. They were strongly supported by players like Aubin Thierry Goporo, who the following year represented the nation as part of the team competing in the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games.
Today, I want to honor Aubin Goporo’s unwavering commitment as he launches the Saint George Sports Foundation. This initiative stands as a testament to his enduring dedication to developing basketball on the continent that nurtured his talent. His remarkable journey from a source of national pride to a respected head coach in the U.S. deserves both admiration and celebration. Aubin is an exemplary role model. I fully support his initiative and have no doubt that other well-wishers will join in sponsoring this worthy cause. Such support is vital to ensure the success and lasting impact of the Saint George Sports Foundation.
Guy Darlan
Former President, Central African Republic’s Basketball Federation
"Supporting the St George Sports Foundation has been an absolute honor. Their mission to collect and deliver basketball shoes to underprivileged kids in Africa is truly inspiring. Access to something as simple as a pair of shoes can open doors to opportunities, confidence, and a sense of belonging. The foundation’s commitment to empowering young athletes and giving them the tools they need to succeed is something I deeply believe in. I’m proud to stand behind such a meaningful cause and encourage others to support the incredible work they are doing."
Paul Hewitt
San Diego Clippers - NBA G League, Head Coach
“The St. George Sports Foundation has been a game-changer for many young people in today’s society. Its commitment to youth development through sports is truly inspiring. Thanks to their programs, I’ve witnessed countless children grow in confidence, leadership, and teamwork both on and off the court. The future is bright for our youth because of the St. George Sports Foundation.”
Danny Manning
Former NBA Player, Head Coach at the University of Tulsa and Wake Forest
Assistant Coach at the University of Colorado
“Coaching against Coach Aubin Goporo at Florida Air Academy was an honor and started a lifelong friendship. I have known Coach Goporo for 30 years. Coached possessed a passion for coaching, developing talent and helping student athletes to prosper under his guidance. Many players went on to compete at the highest collegiate level and professional ranks. His recent endeavor of starting the St. George Sports Foundation to help young kids in Africa play in athletic shoes is a reminder of who Coach Goporo is. I am truly honored to help in any way to aid Coach in this life changing project.
Please contribute to Coach Goporo through the St. George Sports Foundation to help these young aspiring basketball players.”
Bob Horodyski
Former Buchholz High School Basketball Coach
President of Florida Association of Basketball Coaches
Board of Directors National High School Basketball Coaches Association
“The St. George Sports Foundation is a great asset serving as a vital bridge that connects athletes and organizations for the betterment of youth. Through its dedication to providing resources, mentorship, and opportunities, the foundation empowers young athletes to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Its impact goes beyond sports, fostering personal growth, a strong sense of community, and ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.”
Juan Mendez
Former Niagara University Purples Eagles
Co-Owner and General Manager of the Montreal Toundra Pro Basketball team
"I've known coach Aubin Goporo since his coaching days at Florida Air Academy. I always enjoyed recruiting his players. I'm proud to support him and the St. George Sports Foundation in their mission to empower and mentor young athletes through sports, promote community engagement, and create opportunities for growth for African youth."
Dedrique Taylor
Cal State Fullerton, Head Coach
“The St. George Sports Foundation, created by my high school coach, Aubin Goporo, is a remarkable initiative dedicated to providing athletic shoes to less fortunate kids in Africa. Coach Goporo has achieved great success in his coaching career, yet he has never forgotten his roots or the children in need. His passion for helping others and his commitment to giving back truly set him apart. Through this foundation, he is making a meaningful impact, ensuring that young athletes have the proper footwear to pursue their dreams and excel in sports. His generosity and dedication are truly inspiring! I am glad to call him my coach, mentor, and a friend.”
Ioannis Papapetrou
Panathinakos B.C.
"Coach Goporo embodies the true spirit of humanitarianism, proving that the greatest purpose in life is to uplift others. His dedication to making a difference in the lives of young athletes in Africa is a testament to the power of compassion, leadership, and service."
Marius Prekevicius
South Florida Bulls
“Playing for Coach Goporo at Florida Air Academy, I witnessed firsthand his passion for making a real difference in the lives of his players and those in need. He is more than just a coach—he is a mentor, a leader, and a role model who genuinely cares about the success and well-being of others. His dedication goes beyond the court, as he continually seeks ways to uplift and support those less fortunate. I am truly glad he created the St. George Sports Foundation to help young kids in his homeland, a testament to his generosity and commitment to giving back.”
Walter Hodge
Florida Gators
“I’ve known Coach Aubin for a very long time, and one of many things that stand out about him is his generosity and kindness. Regardless of the situation, he’s always on the lookout for ways to help kids in any way he can. He’s always there for anyone in need. The St. George Sports Foundation is just another example of how Aubin is always looking out for others. This is an incredible thing he’s doing, and I can’t imagine the positive impact this will have on kids who are starting or playing sports to ensure they have shoes to wear.”
Alexander Kaun
Cleveland Cavaliers
“The St. George Sports Foundation is a philanthropic platform dedicated to improving lives, creating lasting change, and inspiring hope in young athletes facing hardships. By donating, you are not only providing essential resources and opportunities but also becoming part of a movement that uplifts and empowers the next generation. This foundation is more than just sports—it’s about resilience, community, and the belief that every young athlete deserves a chance to succeed. I deeply admire Coach Goporo’s initiative and dedication to making a meaningful impact, and I am proud to support a cause that truly transforms lives.”
Rihards Kuksiks
Arizona State Sun Devils
“The St. George Sports Foundation is a transformative organization dedicated to empowering young athletes and creating opportunities for those facing hardships. Through sports, mentorship, and community support, the foundation instills discipline, confidence, and hope in the next generation. Coach Goporo, as a true humanitarian, leads this initiative with passion and dedication, using his platform to inspire youth. His unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of young athletes is not only admirable but also life-changing for so many in need.”
Alvin Cruz
Niagara University Purples Eagles
"Coach Goporo sees every challenge as an opportunity to encourage, uplift, and spark hope. There is nothing more inspirational than a leader who commits his life to helping young athletes realize their dreams. That is exactly what I experienced while playing for coach Goporo in high school."
Aurimas Kieza
Hofstra University Pride