Current Project:

The “Duke” Memorial Scholarship Fund

Beginning in 2026, the Good Athlete Project will be recognizing hard-working, high-character athletes with just a little bit of an edge. You don’t have to be perfect, but you have to keep trying - with effort, character, and care for your craft and those around you.

James Dawson Davis, Sr. was a founding Board Member of the Good Athlete Project.

We are saddened by his recent passing. Annual awards in his name will continue the legacy of this kind, tough, hard-working, loyal, and dedicated community member.

James earned the nickname “Duke” and was a standout on the football field for North Shore Country Day School. There, he was a team captain and earned All-State recognition from multiple outlets, including the Chicago Tribune. His success on the field led to a college scholarship at Memphis State University.

After his time in Memphis, he was a Battalion Commander in the U.S. Naval Air Reserve before beginning a long career as an entrepreneur. But his greatest passion was supporting his children through their many athletic endeavors. He was deeply loved and will be sorely missed.

We can’t thank you enough for all your support in helping us fuel our mission to maximize the potential of athletics as education!