About ARC
The Coach Behind
The Movement.
ARC Athletics is more than a training program — it's a philosophy. Coach Akil Charles has dedicated his life to developing youth athletes in the DMV, one rep at a time.
The Story
Built Different. Built for DMV.
Coach Akil Charles grew up with a basketball in his hands and a vision in his heart. After a competitive playing career, he realized his true calling wasn't just to play the game — it was to transform it for the next generation.
In 2018, he founded ARC Athletics with a singular mission: changing the world THRU hoops. Not just making better basketball players, but developing better people — athletes who compete with integrity, lead with character, and inspire their communities.
Today, with 500+ athletes trained and 8+ years of coaching experience, ARC is the go-to development program for youth players across Maryland, Virginia, and DC.
Train with Coach AkilThe ARC Philosophy
Four pillars guide everything we do at ARC Athletics.
Accountability
Every athlete owns their development. We hold each other to the highest standard, on and off the court.
Passion
We love the game. That passion is contagious — it drives athletes to push through every barrier.
Community
Basketball is a team sport. We build lifelong relationships and a culture athletes want to be part of.
Excellence
Good enough isn't good enough. We pursue mastery in every drill, every rep, every session.
The ARC Journey
Playing Career Begins
Akil Charles starts his competitive basketball journey, developing a deep passion for the game.
College Basketball
Plays at the collegiate level, where he begins studying the game from a coaching perspective.
First Training Session
Akil runs his first youth basketball training session in Prince George's County, MD.
ARC Athletics Founded
"Changing The World THRU Hoops" — ARC Athletics is officially born in the DMV.
100 Athletes Trained
Despite challenges, ARC trains over 100 athletes and pivots to offer hybrid virtual/in-person sessions.
500 Athletes Trained
ARC Athletics becomes the premier youth basketball development program in the DMV area.
Be Part of the Story.
Your athlete's chapter starts with the first session. Let's write it together.
Book a Session