Meet The Team
The coaches behind every breakthrough.
Every NLA athlete trains under coaches who have lived the work. Former college and pro athletes. Performance specialists. People who care more about your athlete’s growth than any other gym in Tulsa.
01 — Founder
Josh Jackson
Founder & CEO
Meet Josh Jackson, the founder and head athletic trainer of Next Level Athletics. A Tulsa native, Josh played basketball at Memorial High School, where he won two state championships. Josh continued his athletic journey at Bethel College in Kansas.With a wealth of 7 years of experience, Josh has trained thousands of athletes, from young beginners to elite professionals, helping over 100 athletes achieve their dreams of competing at the collegiate level and training dozens of professional athletes across various sports.Josh is dedicated to exploring innovative training techniques and inspiring the next generation of athletes. He consistently brings positive energy to every session and enjoys trying out new sports and games.
02 — Head Trainer
Matthew “Sweets” Sweetman
Director of Training & Head Trainer
Matthew Sweetman, goes by Sweets, was born and raised in Portsmouth, England. He played in soccer academies before continuing his career at Rogers State University, where he won two conference championships while earning a bachelor’s degree in Pre-Physical Therapy.After training at Next Level Athletics as a college athlete, Matthew felt an instant sense of belonging, and the gym became his home away from home. He is known for his intense training style, motivating athletes to give their maximum effort while building strong relationships that foster a supportive environment.In his spare time, Matthew enjoys attending music events with his brother and loves skiing during the winter season. He and Josh are also an unbeatable duo at Spikeball — think you can take them on? Sweets would love to be challenged the next time you’re in.
03 — Sports Performance
Jacob “Yank” Yankee
Sports Performance Trainer & Social Media Manager
Jacob “Yank” Yankee is a Tulsa native whose passion for athletics started at a young age. Born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Yank attended Booker T. Washington, where he developed his love for sports and competed in baseball throughout his life. As an athlete himself, he understands the work, consistency, and mindset it takes to improve and perform at a high level.Yank brings a high level of energy, enthusiasm, and positivity to every session. His passion for training comes from seeing athletes grow, improve, and gain confidence in their abilities. Whether working with individuals or groups, he is focused on creating a fun, competitive, and high-effort environment for every athlete.
04 — Co-Founder
Emma Jackson
Co-Founder · Admin
Emma co-founded Next Level Athletics with her husband Josh at the end of 2020, helping launch the facility from the ground up. A Jenks High School native, she’s the partner behind the build — supporting the business side of NLA from day one and bringing the founding family energy that’s shaped the culture of the gym.Off the floor, Emma is an avid animal lover and a proud cat owner with a collection of cat-themed mugs. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time at the beach, and cherishing moments with her friends and family.
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05 — Sports Performance
Jeremiah Fisher
Sports Performance Trainer
Bio coming soon. Jeremiah is part of the NLA training team. Check back here shortly for his full profile.
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06 — Sports Performance
William Pendergraft
Sports Performance Trainer
Bio coming soon. William is part of the NLA training team. Check back here shortly for the full profile.
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07 — Sports Performance
Jackson Bacot
Sports Performance Trainer
Jackson is from Charleston, South Carolina. He grew up playing basketball through high school before serving in the United States Air Force, including two years stationed in South Korea. Jackson is now studying Human Performance and Physical Education at Tulsa Community College while building his coaching career at NLA.Jackson joined the NLA team in July 2026, driven by a passion for helping others through health and physical education. Athletes describe his training style as driven and motivated. He connects best with athletes who bring energy, character, and a real willingness to work.Outside of the gym, Jackson can be found lifting, playing basketball, or gaming. Ask him about his time stationed overseas the next time you see him.
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08 — Operations
Kennedi Davis
Operations Coordinator
Bio coming soon. Kennedi is part of the NLA training team. Check back here shortly for the full profile.
Want to train with us?
Start with the free 3-Phase process.
Meet the team. See the gym. Get your athlete’s data. No card on file. No commitment. Free Baseline Assessment, Performance Class, and Movement Analysis — all on the house. Book Free Assessment
Or call 918-716-5280
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