Daytona, FL. Earlier this month, the DME Academy Blue and Gold High School basketball teams brought their energy, leadership, and passion off the court and into the community. The destination? Palm Terrace Elementary School in Daytona Beach—where Field Day became a showcase of teamwork, mentorship, and fun.
For over four hours, DME athletes supported young students across activity stations—from relay races to obstacle courses. They didn’t just supervise—they led by example, running alongside the kids, demonstrating games, and hyping up every station.
“The DME players were so supportive and did a fantastic job of interacting with our kids,” said Colby Carden, Palm Terrace’s New Teacher of the Year and DME assistant coach. “It was just a fun time had by all.”
The event wasn’t just a school day activity—it was a valuable moment of community connection. Each DME player earned service hours, a core requirement of the DME Academy experience. More importantly, they made a positive impact on the Daytona community that supports them.
At DME, community involvement is a core value. Our athletes train to win—but they’re also being shaped into well-rounded leaders who understand the importance of giving back.
Bass Sylla
Mattia Orlandi
Lio Toscanini
Oliver Puzzi
Malik Oppon
John Conrad
Marcelo Chagris
Dmitri Davis
Justin Lanos
Miguel Fernandez
Ndiaga Sylla
Liam Ford-Ramoon
Guided by Coaches Allen Carden (Blue team) and Pete Munch (Gold team), these players continue to embody the spirit of DME—hardworking, humble, and community-driven. As a proud part of the Daytona Beach community, DME Academy sees moments like this not just as service, but as a reflection of who we are. It’s never just about basketball—it’s about character, connection, and committing to something bigger than ourselves
Daytona, FL – The mornings in Daytona Beach start with salt in the air and the steady sound of determination—barbells hitting the floor, deep breaths between reps, and the relentless push to be better than yesterday. In a city built on speed, where engines scream down the track and waves pound the shore, Samantha Reagan is proving that DME Academy isn’t just a school—it’s a launchpad for elite competitors.
At just 14 years old, Samantha is making her mark in one of the toughest sports in the world. Competing in the 2025 CrossFit Open, she has climbed the ranks, securing 84th place worldwide in the Girls (14-15) division. In North America East, she stands at 21st, and in the United States, she holds the 26th spot—a testament to the grit, discipline, and relentless work ethic she brings to every training session.
CrossFit isn’t just a workout—it’s a test of strength, endurance, and mental toughness. Every day, Samantha puts in the work, pushing herself through grueling strength training, endurance challenges, and skill work while balancing her academic life at DME Academy.
From the start, Alex Richard, DME Academy’s Sports Performance Director, saw something special.
“Samantha doesn’t just show up—she attacks every workout with a purpose,” says Richard. “CrossFit is one of the hardest sports out there. It’s year-round, it’s brutal, and it requires a mindset most people don’t have. She has it.”
At DME Academy, students aren’t just preparing for college—they’re preparing for life. Whether it’s on the field, in the weight room, or in the classroom, DME gives student-athletes the resources, structure, and support to chase big goals. For Samantha, it’s been the perfect place to grow—not just as a student, but as an athlete.
Follow Samantha’s journey and see how DME Academy helps student-athletes excel—inside and outside the classroom. Learn more.
Daytona, Fl. Join us at DME Academy’s upcoming Open House event on Monday, April 22nd! We’re thrilled to extend a warm welcome to all prospective student-athletes, parents, and families. This event is your chance to get an inside look at what makes DME Academy stand out in Daytona, Florida.
DME Academy: Where Champions are Made
DME isn’t just about athletics- we’re about unlocking your full potential as an athlete and a student. We offer co-ed boarding & day school (grades 6-12), post-grad programs, and year-round athletic opportunities (camps, tournaments, personalized training).
Why Attend the DME Open House?
Explore our state-of-the-art facilities and connect with our elite coaches, passionate teachers, and dedicated advisors. Learn about our innovative training philosophies, personalized learning and our 120 course offerings that empower student-athletes to shine both on and off the field. We will also be unveiling Florida residents about our Step Up scholarships through EMA which provide every family the opportunity to attend DME Academy.
DME Academy’s dedication goes beyond the field. Witness it at our Open House! Whether you’re an aspiring athlete or a parent seeking academic excellence, this event is for you. Don’t miss out on April 22nd. To learn more about DME Academy’s Day School and register for the FREE open house, click here.
What is Dual Enrollment? It’s a program that allows high school students to take college courses and earn credits for both high school and college graduation. DME Academy’s Dual Enrollment program provides a unique benefit to our 11th and 12th-grade students by enabling them to gain college credits online, tailored to fit their busy athletic schedules.
Why Dual Enrollment Matters for Student-Athletes
DME Academy’s Commitment to Dual Enrollment
At DME Academy, our dual enrollment program empowers students to excel academically while fully engaging in their athletic training. This approach prepares our student-athletes for the academic and athletic demands of college, providing a significant advantage in their future pursuits.
For student-athletes interested in leveraging dual enrollment to its fullest potential, DME Academy provides the resources, support, and guidance needed to help you get started. Discover how dual enrollment at DME Academy can be the key to unlocking your academic and athletic potential. Click here to learn more.
In the spirit of recognizing and honoring exceptional dedication, hard work, and positive attitudes, DME Academy is thrilled to announce its Students of the Month for November. These three students exemplify the core values of DME Academy, showcasing not only their skills in their respective sports but also their commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.
Hailing from Brazil, Gabriela Novais Medeiros de Carvalho stands tall at 6’0″ as a right-side hitter for DME’s volleyball team. Her unwavering commitment to her academics matches that of her sport, and is evident in her daily efforts on the court. Gabriela finds joy in playing volleyball every day, and her passion for the game is an inspiration to her peers.
Originally from Tel Aviv, Yoav Levy is a standout point guard on DME men’s basketball’s High School Gold team, standing at an impressive 6’1″. Beyond his physical prowess on the basketball court, Yoav embodies discipline, as reflected in his favorite quote: “Discipline is choosing between what you want now or what you want the most.” His dedication to both academics and athletics is truly commendable.
Representing the girls soccer team, Bailey Wilson, a freshman center back from DeBary, Florida, has left an indelible mark on DME Academy. Her favorite quote, “Be a goldfish,” taken from the popular TV show Ted Lasso, reflects her positive outlook on life. Bailey aspires to become a pediatrician after college, showcasing her determination not only in sports but also in her academic pursuits.
These Students of the Month are shining examples of DME’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals.
DME Academy is dedicated to shaping students for success at the next level, emphasizing excellence not only in the classroom but also on the field. As we celebrate these outstanding students, we look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success as they embody the values of DME.
Interested in reaching your full potential in the classroom and beyond?
DME Academy is pleased to highlight two outstanding students who have made a significant impact on our community during the month of October.
Ceylone Brooks, a postgraduate student from Columbus, Ohio, is not only excelling in her studies but also leaving her mark on the basketball court as a key player on DME’s girls’ prep team. Beyond her athletic achievements, Ceylone is recognized for her leadership and support for her peers. Her inclusive approach creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable and heard.
Seif Kirker, a high school student from Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, brings his passion for basketball and a global perspective to DME’s High School Gold team.
Both Ceylone and Seif go beyond their roles as athletes; they are outstanding citizens who make a positive difference every day. Their commitment to supporting their peers and contributing to the inclusive culture at DME reflects the values that define our academy. We congratulate Ceylone Brooks and Seif Kirker for their exceptional achievements and contributions to the DME community.
Interested in becoming a student at DME Academy? Connect with us!
On November 8, DME Academy celebrated a momentous National Signing Day as six exceptional student-athletes officially committed to continuing their academic and athletic journeys at esteemed institutions.
Jaylen Robinson, a 6’6″ forward, chose the University of Richmond’s academics and men’s basketball program over a distinguished list of finalists, including Princeton, Mercer, Yale, Penn, and Columbia. Matt Panaggio, Director of Men’s Basketball at DME Academy, expressed his pride in Jaylen, stating, “I am very proud of Jaylen and excited to see his future at the University of Richmond. He’s very unselfish, coachable, and hardworking.”
Olivia Schmitt, a 5’5″ point guard from Staten Island, is heading back to her home state to study and play women’s basketball at Syracuse University. Head coach Felisha Legette-Jack said, “She has a certain toughness about her. She can pass that ball; she can shoot that ball, and one thing I love about her is she has no problem going in with the trees and trying to make things happen.”
Keira Scott, a 6’1″ four-star forward and daughter of Syracuse football alum George Scott, will be joining DME teammate, Olivia Schmitt, at Syracuse University. Legette-Jack said, “Once we learned how incredibly gifted she was both academically and athletically, and she’s also got a connection to being Orange, it was a no-brainer that we were going to go after her as if she was the best player in the world.”
Tahj Bloom, a highly rated 6’3″ forward for DME Academy, signed with Mississippi State University as a four-star recruit, ranking No. 41 overall and No. 9 among forwards by Premiere Basketball and espnW HoopGurlz. Head Coach Sam Purcell said of Bloom, “She brings a dynamic skill set and competitive mentality each time she steps on the floor. Most importantly, Tahj comes from a great family and will be a great addition to the culture we are building at Mississippi State.”
6’2″ forward from Melbourne, Australia, Tabitha Betson, signed to the University of Colorado. A four-star recruit, Betson holds the No. 80 spot on ESPN.com’s top 100 list. Colorado head coach, JR Payne, said, “Tabs is one of the most skilled and well-rounded players we have recruited here at Colorado. Her basketball IQ is off the charts and will be a perfect fit for our offensive system.”
Ines Goryanova, a 5’8″ point guard from Sofia, Bulgaria, chose Baylor University. Ranked No. 49 on ProspectsNation and No. 71 on espnW, Goryanova impressed Baylor head coach Nicki Collen with her exciting guard abilities, deep shooting range, and the overall toughness cultivated through her mother’s extensive professional basketball background.
Michael Panaggio, Director of Girl’s Basketball at DME Academy, commemorated the day as historic for the program, stating, “We have 5 extremely special young ladies who are headed to the power 5 level. I am very proud of their individual success thus far and I’m excited to see what they can accomplish together during their senior year.”
DME Academy looks forward to witnessing the continued success of our class of 2024 basketball student-athletes, both academically and athletically. Congratulations to these outstanding student-athletes on this remarkable accomplishment.
DME Academy stands as an elite boarding and day school for athletes, offering a dynamic environment that combines exceptional academics with year-round athletic training. But there’s a new aspect to the DME experience that’s making waves among Florida residents: the Step Up scholarship program.
The Step Up scholarship program is a game-changer for Florida residents, providing access to private schools that align with their academic and personal needs. Regardless of household income, K-12 students eligible to enroll in a K-12 public school in Florida can receive a scholarship, which averages around ,800.
DME Academy’s commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes has made it a sought-after institution for those aspiring to excel academically and athletically. DME’s approach to academics is unique and personalized, catering to students’ individual interests, learning styles, and athletic training and competition schedules.
One standout feature is the creation of Personalized Learning Plans for each student every year. This approach ensures that academic growth aligns with the demands of the student’s athletic pursuits. DME Academy also offers a hybrid learning model that seamlessly blends online education with a traditional classroom setting. In addition to a comprehensive curriculum, students have access to honors, advanced, AP, dual-enrollment, and SAT/ACT preparation courses.
The results speak volumes. DME Academy boasts a 99% college matriculation rate, with graduates of DME going on to attend prestigious institutions like the University of Iowa, UNC, The Citadel, George Mason University, and Drexel University, to name a few.
One other notable and unique aspect that sets DME Academy apart is its provision of year-round organized sports opportunities at the middle school level. This is a distinguishing feature, particularly when considering that many Florida public schools do not offer such extensive sports programs. DME Academy’s commitment to providing year-round sports like boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, volleyball, baseball, and golf demonstrates their dedication to fostering athletic talent from a young age. This holistic approach not only ensures that students develop their skills but also prepares them to handle the rigorous demands of college-level competition, both in terms of skill development and managing demanding schedules.
The acceptance of Step Up scholarships at DME Academy is a testament to the institution’s commitment to providing quality education and athletic development to all who seek it. For Florida residents, this represents an unprecedented opportunity to access DME’s elite educational and athletic experience.
Floridians interested in learning more about DME Academy and the Step Up scholarship program are encouraged to attend our Day School Open House on November 6, 2023. Click here to register.
DME Academy extends a warm invitation to prospective student-athletes, parents, and families to its upcoming Open House event on Monday, November 6. This informative event aims to provide a detailed insight into DME Academy, a renowned institution based in Daytona Beach, Florida, known for its dedication to fostering both athletic and academic excellence at the middle school, high school, and post-graduate levels.
DME Academy at a Glance
DME Academy is a distinguished institution that caters to the needs of student-athletes aspiring to unlock their highest potential, leverage their strengths, and realize their ambitions. Situated in Daytona Beach, Florida, DME provides an extensive array of programs. These encompass co-ed boarding and day school options spanning from 6th to 12th grade, post-graduate programs, as well as year-round offerings, including camps, tournaments, and private and small group training.
Key Highlights of DME Academy’s Open House
DME Academy’s Open House is tailored for local Florida student-athletes seeking to enhance their middle and high school experience and access year-round organized sports programs, a rarity in most local schools, particularly at the middle school level. Geared toward day school student-athletes or commuters, this event provides a window into the extraordinary opportunities that await.
Attendees will have the chance to explore DME’s world-class campus and exceptional athletic facilities, fostering an environment for holistic growth. Additionally, they’ll engage with DME’s elite staff, including dedicated teachers, coaches, and administrators, to gain insight into DME’s premier training regimens, coaching philosophies, and the wealth of resources available to student-athletes. Aspiring attendees can also delve into DME’s academic curriculum, powered by Xceed, offering personalized learning plans, flexible schedules, and academically challenging coursework that prepares students for the next level. Lastly, DME will provide information and details on how Florida residents can benefit from the Step Up scholarships through EMA, ensuring that DME’s world-class education and training are accessible to local families.
DME Academy’s dedication to excellence transcends the athletic field, and the Open House event is your chance to witness this commitment firsthand. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete with dreams of achieving greatness or a parent seeking a top-tier education for your child, DME Academy’s Open House on November 6 is an event you won’t want to miss.
To learn more about DME Academy’s Day School and register for the FREE open house, click here.
At DME Academy, we take immense pride in recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements of our students. It is with great pleasure that we announce our September Students of the Month, who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their studies, character, and community involvement. Without further ado, let’s meet our outstanding students for September:
High School Student of the Month: Lauren Duff
Lauren Duff, a senior at DME Academy, has been selected as our High School Student of the Month for September. Lauren has consistently maintained an impressive record of straight A’s during her time at DME. Her academic excellence is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her studies.
What sets Lauren apart, however, is not just her academic prowess but her exceptional character. She is known among her peers and teachers as a stellar student who radiates kindness and compassion.
Lauren aspires to become a teacher once she graduates from DME Academy. With her dedication, empathy, and outstanding academic achievements, there is no doubt that she will make a positive impact on the lives of future students she encounters.
Middle School Student of the Month: Anthony Panetta
In the middle school category, we are delighted to introduce Anthony Panetta as our Student of the Month for September. Anthony, an eighth-grader at DME Academy, has demonstrated exceptional commitment to both his academic and athletic pursuits.
Anthony’s passion lies in baseball, and he represents DME Academy with great pride on the field. He aspires to not only improve his athletic skills but also excel academically, with the goal of being accepted into Vanderbilt University in the future.
What makes Anthony stand out is not just his dedication to personal growth but also his willingness to extend a helping hand to others. Teachers and peers alike describe him as a student who consistently stays on task, performs his work with diligence, and volunteers to assist fellow students. His politeness and respect towards both teachers and peers have made him a role model within our school community.
As we celebrate the achievements of Lauren Duff and Anthony Panetta, we also recognize the dedication and hard work of all our students at DME Academy. Each of you contributes to making our school a vibrant and nurturing community, and we are proud of your accomplishments.
Congratulations to both Lauren and Anthony on being named our September Students of the Month.
Interested in becoming a student at DME Academy? Connect with us!