Get to Know William Tandy
William Tandy is also the principal of Grandport Academy, a middle school in Ecorse, MI as well as the author of “On Life Support,” a story about resuscitating young men in America. Designed to inspire, motivate, and educate young people, the book recounts how I found my purpose in coaching football.
My belief is that children are born but responsible adults are made. This is why I have dedicated my life and time to this world’s most precious resource: our children. I use football as a bridge to connect at-risk youth with education and faith. By providing an outlet from the dangers of inner-city life, I inspire hundreds of young men to change their lives in a positive way.
Notable Accomplishments
Previously, I was the director of the Upward Bound program for more than 15 years. Under my leadership, 98% of the students who participated in my program graduated. Further, more than 80% of those who graduated enrolled in college or university.
I implemented a number of innovative programs designed to help students achieve high marks. However, one thing I am most proud of is writing grants totaling over $7.5 million dollars for first-generation, low-income students to achieve their dreams of becoming the first in their families to go to college.
Education and Business Prowess
I was born and raised in Detroit. After graduating from Detroit’s Central High School, I attended Tennessee State University, where I attained my Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology. I went on to earn my Master’s Degree from the School of Social work (mental health) and I also hold an Educational Specialist in Ed Leadership, both from Wayne State University.
For many years, I have been a business owner for various establishments. I am the Vice President for 3 Wheel Run Inc., a corporation that has owned and operated some of Detroit’s most popular nightclubs and restaurants. Some examples are Club Network, Evolution, Icon, Premium and Rounds Pizza Bar and lounge located on Times Square in Downtown Detroit.
My Passion
However, I am most passionate about coaching football. I was the head football coach for Loyola High School and served as head coach for the West Side Cubs—one of the winningest programs in the country—for 22 years.
Through my leadership and motivation, the Cubs won an amazing 15 out of the past 18 championships. I have also played a part in sending hundreds of young men to colleges and universities all over the country.
West Side Cub players have gone to the University of Michigan, Michigan State, Oregon, Iowa, Tennessee State University, Saginaw Valley, and Toledo just to name a few. My players are currently drafted in the National Football League (NFL) with teams such as the Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Los Angeles Chargers.
Awards Earned
As a result of my commitment to the young athletes all over Detroit, I was the youngest member inducted into the Michigan Youth Hall of Fame. Additionally, in December 2012, The American Youth Football Association inducted me into the National American Youth Football Hall of Fame.
Get in Touch With Me
For more information on speaking engagements and youth programs, contact me.