DME Academy’s girls basketball program proudly announces that not one, not two, but four of their exceptional players have earned spots on the prestigious ESPN HoopGurlz Top 100 List for the 2024 recruiting class. Tahj Bloom, Ines Goryanova, Tabitha Betson, and Keira Scott have all earned well-deserved recognition for their outstanding skills, dedication, and hard work.
Tahj Bloom, a 6’3″ forward from Chicago, Illinois, has secured the 38th spot on the list. The 8th-ranked forward recently committed to DME Academy for the upcoming season, and her impact is anticipated to be nothing short of extraordinary. Bloom is a top recruit in the 2024 class, having received numerous offers from top Division I programs but ultimately committing to Mississippi State.
Next on the list is Ines Goryanova at #71, marking an impressive ascent of 8 spots since the last rankings. Hailing from London, England, Goryanova is a 4-star point guard who has garnered attention from over 35 colleges across the nation. With her sights set high, she has recently narrowed down her prospective schools to an electrifying Top 8, which reads like a who’s who of collegiate basketball—Louisville, West Virginia, Auburn, Baylor, Iowa State, and more. Goryanova’s dedication and skill set make her a valuable asset to any team she joins.
Tabitha Betson, a 6’2″ forward from Melbourne, Australia, holds the 80th spot on the list. Betson’s ability to dominate in the paint is complemented by her versatility on both offense and defense, and she’s expected to be a strong leader for this DME Academy team in the upcoming season. Betson received offers from over 30 Division I women’s basketball programs, and has now narrowed her choices down to a select group of 12 schools, including powerhouses such as Syracuse, Clemson, and Maryland.
Last but certainly not least, Keira Scott stakes her claim at #97. Hailing from Falls Church, Virginia, this 6’2″ wing has already secured her future at Syracuse University, a testament to her exceptional skills both on and off the court. She’s expected to put a lot up on the board for DME Academy this season, especially from the 3-point range.
As the 2023-24 season looms on the horizon, DME Academy’s girls basketball program stands on the precipice of greatness. With an ensemble of talented players who have not only secured their places among ESPN’s HoopGurlz Top 100 but also demonstrated the commitment and passion that fuels their drive, success is inevitable. Michael Panaggio, Director of Girls Basketball at DME Academy, stated, “We are immensely proud of Tahj, Ines, Tab, and Keira for their remarkable achievements. Their inclusion in the ESPN Top 100 List is a testament to their dedication, hard work, and boundless potential. We are excited to see them continue to excel and make a significant impact both on and off the court.”
To learn more about DME Academy’s elite girls basketball program, click here.
The DME Academy campus was buzzing with excitement as we welcomed a total of 200 students for the new academic year. Among them were both familiar faces returning to continue their educational journey and fresh faces eager to embark on their DME experience. To kick off this exciting new chapter, DME Academy hosted a vibrant Welcome Week from Sunday, August 20, to Friday, August 25, packed with engaging events that aimed to foster connections, create lasting memories, and set the tone for a fantastic year ahead.
Welcome Back BBQ
On August 20, DME Academy set the stage for an unforgettable week by hosting a Welcome Back BBQ. The campus was alive with laughter and camaraderie as students, their families, and the DME community came together to share stories, enjoy delicious food, and create new friendships. This event not only eased the transition for newcomers but also provided a warm welcome to returning students, making them feel right at home.
Outdoor Movie on the Pitch
Under the stars and against the backdrop of the sprawling DME Academy campus, students gathered for a unique movie night experience on August 21. The outdoor screening of “Creed 3” on a massive screen brought students together to relax, unwind, and enjoy a cinematic masterpiece.
Selfie Scavenger Hunt
August 22 brought out the competitive spirit in DME students with the thrilling Selfie Scavenger Hunt competition. Armed with a list of items and places to find, student teams embarked on an exhilarating quest around the campus. Armed with their phones, they captured creative selfies with each item and checked it off the list. The first team to successfully locate all the list items was crowned the winner!
Sunset Yoga
In the midst of the bustling Welcome Week, August 23 offered a serene moment of tranquility with Sunset Yoga. Students gathered to rejuvenate their bodies and minds, guided by the soothing ambiance of the setting sun. The practice allowed participants to find balance amid the excitement, fostering a sense of well-being that they could carry forward into their academic endeavors.
Fun Festival
August 24 marked the pinnacle of Welcome Week with the much-anticipated Fun Festival. The campus transformed into a carnival wonderland, complete with Kona Ice treats and a medley of inflatables, including obstacle courses, jousting arenas, slides, and a bungee run. The day offered an abundance of fun, and above all, plenty of laughter!
National Banana Split Day
As Welcome Week drew to a close on August 25, students celebrated National Banana Split Day in style. Armed with a variety of delectable toppings, students crafted their own banana split sundaes, turning a beloved dessert into a memorable social experience. The event provided the perfect conclusion to a week full of bonding, camaraderie, and shared experiences.
DME Academy’s 2023 Welcome Week proved to be an extraordinary initiation into the new academic year. From the heartwarming connections formed during the Welcome Back BBQ to the exciting challenges of the Selfie Scavenger Hunt and the pure fun of the Fun Festival, students were reminded that their DME journey is not only about education and athletics, but also about forging lasting friendships and unforgettable memories. DME looks forward to the incredible year ahead, building upon the unity and spirit of Welcome Week to create an environment where every student can thrive.
Interested in becoming a student at DME Academy? Connect with us!
In the realm of high school girls basketball, one standout talent has been making waves in the recruiting arena. Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, Tabitha Betson, a remarkable 6’2” forward in the class of 2024 at DME Academy, has embarked on an awe-inspiring journey through the world of college recruitment. Her prowess on the court has attracted the attention of a long list of Division I programs, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in her athletic career.
Among the array of scholarship offers from over thirty prestigious institutions, Betson has meticulously curated a list of twelve prospective schools that have captured her interest. This list includes esteemed names like:
As the school year commences, Betson plans to embark on a series of visits to these institutions, with each step bringing her closer to the decision that will shape her future.
Beyond her elite basketball skills, Betson’s character shines through as an exceptional teammate and a natural leader. DME Academy’s coach, Mikey Panaggio, attests to her integral role within the team dynamics. Having earned her place as one of the select few returning players, Betson’s value as a team player is indisputable. Panaggio envisions her continued growth, as a leader both on and off the court, priming her for the challenges of the next level while propelling the team to new heights in the upcoming season.
As Betson navigates the intricate landscape of college programs, her discernment is focused on finding the perfect synergy between her playing style and her future team’s system. This meticulous approach extends to evaluating the team’s culture, goals, and how she fits into the program’s tapestry.
In the realm of international athletes transitioning to the American game, Betson defies convention. Her swift adaptation has caught the eye of her coach, who marvels at her journey. Mikey Panaggio said, “Tab’s well-earned recruitment and her remarkable transformation in just 10 months stand as a testament to her exceptional talent. She embodies the essence of a true post player, a rare find in the basketball world.”
It’s clear that Betson’s multifaceted excellence, remarkable talent, and natural leadership positions her as an invaluable asset to any team. As her narrative continues to unfurl, enthusiasts eagerly await Betson’s decision, pondering which fortunate program will have the privilege of welcoming her into their fold.
Interested in becoming a part of DME Academy’s nationally ranked girls basketball program? Click here.
Laura Stegall, DME Academy’s hardworking and selfless Athletic Director, will be leaving Daytona, and her DME family could not let her go without thanking her for all that she’s done for our student-athletes, staff, and academy.
Stegall joined DME Academy in 2021, after launching the women’s volleyball program at Daytona State College and coaching the Falcons for seven years. During her time at DSC, she produced six nationally-ranked teams and was named AVCA Southeast Region 2 Year College Coach of the Year in 2019. Stegall mentored her student-athletes on and off the court, averaging a 3.5 or above program GPA each year and boasting a near perfect graduation rate during her coaching career.
At DME Academy, Stegall continued to lead her student-athletes to success by being a mentor, guide, and ‘second mother’ to most, especially DME’s volleyball players. She has helped to develop well-rounded student-athletes, and has improved their performance in the classroom, on the court, and in life. Stegall’s leadership has been instrumental in setting a standard of excellence at the academy that has been embraced by DME’s student-athletes, staff, and families alike.
Dan Panaggio, Owner and Co-Founder of DME Academy, stated, “Laura Stegall has been a huge part of the growth of DME Academy. She was a selfless and tireless worker that had the respect of everyone. She is leaving quite a hole in the heart and soul of our school. We will miss her kindness and friendship.”
To hear more about the impact Laura Stegall has had on the DME community, watch the video below:
DME Academy wishes Laura and the entire Stegall family good luck on their next adventure in life, and looks forward to seeing them find continued success. The Stegall’s will truly be missed, but will forever be a part of the great DME Academy Family.
WTMJ – Greg Matzek
One of the most historic educational institutions in the state of Wisconsin is evolving. ‘St. John’s Military Academy’ is now, ‘St. John’s Northwestern Academies’ (SJNA).
The dropping of the word “military” from its official name is not to shy away from what could be perceived as a negative connotation, but rather to signify the evolution of the college preparatory school founded in 1884.
The school’s offerings now include military, leadership and athletic academies. The latter is the most recent development.
“With AAU and club teams and club sports, there are a lot of families that are looking for schools where their child could specialize in a specific sport,” says SJNA President, Robert Fine Jr.
The athletic offerings are thanks to a partnership with Florida’s DME Academy. The leader of the basketball program at DME is former NBA sharpshooter, Wesley Person.
“He’s not here just to create future NBA’ers,” Fine continues. “He’s here to develop young men and women…we’re starting with basketball, but this is going to expand to other sports as well.”
Person is now embedded in the school’s DNA as the face of a basketball program that produced Brandin Podziemski. A first-team all-state performer in High School, Podziemski was selected in the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors.
“Having Brandon being drafted gives the kids an opportunity to look up to something,” Person said. “Having him drafted by the Golden State Warriors can only help.”
So too can Person, who finished his 11-year NBA career as a 41.8 percent three-point shooter.
“The opportunity to have a national team here in this area — we can tap into the Midwest and hopefully draw some interest and get kids the exposure they need.”
From Daytona Beach to Delafield, Person is looking to make a splash with local, regional, and world-wide recruiting. Having played professionally for the Cleveland Cavaliers, he knows the best way to beat the cold is to be in the gym.
Jokingly, Person quipped, “I still got my coat!”
View the full story from WTMJ here.
To learn more about DME Academy at St. John’s Northwestern Academies, click here.
Kris and Keegan Murray were at it again. The twin brothers, who made a name for themselves at DME Academy, put on a show during this year’s NBA Summer League.
Keegan Murray was the talk of the California Classic held at the Golden 1 Center, where he finished as the top scorer of the event on his home court. In the Sacramento Kings’ first game of the event, Murray helped his team to a 100-94 win over the Golden State Warriors, leading all scorers with 29 points. Two days later in a match up against the Miami Heat, Murray topped his already-stellar performance by racking up 41 points, 5 rebounds, 4 steals, and a block. Murray closed out the event in front of a jaw-dropped home crowd as the California Classic’s top scorer, with 70 points in 62 minutes of play and an undefeated 2-0 record for the Kings.
In his brother’s NBA debut, Kris Murray proved why he was a 2023 first-round draft pick. In the Trailblazers third game of the NBA Summer League, Murray led his team to a 97-93 win over Charlotte at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Blazers forward contributed 19 points on 7-of-12 shooting and 7 rebounds in his 32 minutes on the court. His scoring efficiency is something that Portland is sure to be excited about for the upcoming NBA season.
Kris and Keegan Murray both attended DME Academy as post-graduate basketball players, where their recruiting stock took a turn for the better. They went on to continue their careers in the Big Ten, donning the black and gold for the University of Iowa. In 2022, Keegan Murray was drafted as the fourth overall pick to the Sacramento Kings. The 6’8” small forward had a notable rookie year, averaging 12.2 points and shooting 41% from the 3-point range, helping the Kings make the playoffs for the first time since 2006 and earning himself a spot on the NBA’s All-Rookie First Team. A year after Keegan was drafted, his brother Kris was picked up by the Portland Trailblazers in the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft. The Murray brothers’ careers have been nothing short of impressive, and we can only expect continued success at the professional level from here.
DME Academy’s basketball program develops student-athletes to compete at the highest level. To find out more, click here.
The DME Academy indoor club volleyball program will be holding tryouts on Sunday, July 30, 2023.
DME Academy’s indoor club volleyball program has announced they will be holding tryouts on Sunday, July 30, 2023 for their 13U-18U teams. The evaluations will take place at DME’s five-star facilities, which includes seven indoor courts.
The elite volleyball club has teams for girls aged 8-18 and focuses on developing athletes of various skill levels, and exposing them to the highest levels of competition across the country.
DME Academy’s competitive indoor club volleyball program has a short but rich history in winning, thanks to the unique combination of top tier coaches, world-class facilities, and dedicated athletes. During this past season, both the 14-1 Elite and 15-1 Elite earned spots at the 2023 USA Volleyball Girls Junior National Championship, an impressive accomplishment and representation of the work and commitment that DME athletes dedicate to their sport.
Athletes who are interested in being a part of a competitive and elite indoor club volleyball program like DME’s should consider showcasing their talents at the upcoming tryouts.
DME Academy U14 Volleyball Team Finishes 3rd at the USAV Girls Junior National Championship held in Chicago!
The U14 DME Academy volleyball team showcased their exceptional talent and determination as they secured an impressive third-place finish at the prestigious USAV Girls Junior National Volleyball Championship tournament held in Chicago.
The nine-day tournament hosted by USA Volleyball featured over 100 of the most skilled volleyball teams with the most distinguished volleyball players from around the country. This year’s tournament was held at the McCormick Place convention center in Chicago, Illinois.
With unwavering teamwork and remarkable skills on display, DME volleyball left a lasting impression on the national level. Their outstanding performance throughout the tournament demonstrated their commitment to excellence and their ability to rise to the occasion, making them a force to be reckoned with in youth volleyball.
Facing fierce competition from elite teams nationwide, the U14 DME Academy players exhibited remarkable athleticism, strategic play, and consistent focus. The team’s success can be attributed to their strong work ethic, the exceptional coaching from Brooke VanBrocklin and Rodrigo Saunders, and relentless drive to succeed.
Placing third in a tournament of this caliber is a testament to DME Academy’s mission to become a powerhouse on the national level. The U14 DME Academy volleyball team has undoubtedly established itself as a rising star in the volleyball community, leaving a lasting impression on the sport and paving the way for DME’s growing volleyball program.
Congratulations to Emma Cronje, Nailah Cullom, Jade Gunter, Mollie Hale, Sofia Mackin, Keri Petro, Arden Reynolds, Sarah Stegall, Grace Taylor, Sadie VanBrocklin, and Lillian VanDeusen on a successful volleyball season!
Dream of competing on the national stage? You can learn more about DME Academy’s volleyball program here!
DME Academy boys basketball student-athletes, Moustapha Thiam and Elijah Duval, have both earned spots on the prestigious ESPN Top 100 ranking list.
Moustapha Thiam, the 7’0” 200lb center for DME, earned the 51st spot on the list of 2025 recruits. Thiam’s impressive size, combined with his basketball IQ, make him an easy target down low and a scoring machine. Despite his age, he’s already a leader on the court and receiving offers from colleges who want him to be a part of their team.
Occupying the 76th spot on the 2024 list is Elijah Duval, a 6’2″ point guard for DME.
If you dream of becoming an ESPN Top 100 caliber player like Thiam and Duval, check out DME Academy’s boys basketball program.
Dominika Paurova, a DME Academy graduate (‘23), represented the Czech Republic at the 2023 FIBA Women’s Eurobasket tournament held in Tel Aviv, Israel from June 15-23.
At just 18 years old, the Czech Republic native was the second-youngest athlete competing in this year’s tournament, but that was no problem for Paurova. With 4 points, 3 rebounds, a steal and a block in the fourth quarter of their game against Greece, the 6’1” small forward helped her team advance to the quarterfinals.
The Czech Republic team finished seventh overall in the tournament with a 3-3 record, and the women’s team from Belgium took home the title with a win over Spain for their first-ever FIBA EuroBasket championship.
As Paurova continues to build on her impressive basketball career, the next stop along the way is Oregon State University. She joins the Beavers as one of three incoming freshmen for the upcoming 2023-24 season. Oregon State women’s basketball head coach, Scott Rueck, said of Paurova, “Beaver Nation will love the competitive and exciting nature she brings to the court, as well as her creativity on the offensive end.”
To learn more about how DME Academy can help take your basketball career to the next level, click here.
