Our Game Coaches
The Next Level Gaming coaches are the best around
When you book with Next Level Gaming, you get game coaches who are knowledgeable, attentive, approachable, and fun!
Willie Blount, Owner
I am the owner and founder of Next Level Gaming. After graduating high school in the 90s, I served the United States Marine Corps for six years, was honorably discharged in 2000, and went to work for the United States Congress as an IT manager. I have been an entrepreneur in some shape or form since childhood and even made it onto Shark Tank. I continually look for ways to improve the lives of those around me.
In October 2020, I decided I wanted to build the very best gaming theater and mobile esports platform around, and Next Level Gaming was born. I launched our company in May 2021, and retired from my work with the federal government in July 2021. This is my company, my passion, and my full time activity. My every intent is to make my customers, whether private, corporate, government, or military very happy they went with us!
Coach and Driver Jerry
Born and Raised in the Columbia Heights neighborhood of the Nation’s Capital, Coach Jerry’s ruthlessness is legendary. He began his video game career at age 4 playing NES hits like Contra, Super Mario Bros 2, Final Fantasy, Legend of Zelda, and Metroid. Its rumored he spent all of his coin in Central American arcades while visiting family in the summertime growing up.
By 16, the Sony Playstation 2 had taken the country by storm. But Coach Jerry stayed true to his roots and quietly played Pokemon Red on his Nintendo Gameboy Color on the bus ride to and from school.
His dedication to Nintendo stood firm until 4 years later when he bought his first Playstation Portable.
Over the years his game library flourishes, as does his legend. Some say if you listen hard enough, you can hear the sound of someone rage quitting. Followed by a deep voice that asks “Who’s next?”
Coach Jerry’s favorite games to play right now are Rainbow Six Siege on PC and Civilization 6 on the switch.
When he’s not gaming, he enjoys hanging out with his loyal pack of dogs, flying drones inside the house, eating bacon, and taking long naps on the beach.
He can’t wait for his infant son to learn how to play video games so he can school the little squeaker on Nintendo.
Coach and Driver Arthur
Hi! I’m coach Arthur, a 90’s baby who has been playing games since PlayStation 1 came out. My top two favorite game genres are sports games and RPG. Big anime fan and I am a seasoned father of 5 so I’m around kids 24-7.
If you’ve got an itching for laser tag, I’m your guy! I have created a variety of games with much more on the way. We have near endless possibilities on our platform and can provide you with the perfect gaming experience.
Coach and Driver KC (Coach K)
Coach and Driver Russell
Hello, I’m Russell, a Virginia native and graduate of The College of William and Mary. I’ve worked in the entertainment business my whole life, primarily as an actor and musician. I’ve performed all over the US and internationally, most notably for several years as a member of the world-famous Blue Man Group. Additional credits include lots of theatre, a Broadway tour, film, tv, voiceover, multiple bands/music acts, stage fighting and stunt work, and even a cruise ship. I’ve spent decades giving audiences exciting and meaningful experiences, and now that includes creating fun and memorable events with Next Level Gaming.
Senior Coach Mike
Hi! My name is Mike and I’m currently studying marketing at James Madison University. I plan to graduate in the Fall of 2023. I have a deep passion in video games, but not just in playing them, but also in how they can effect us socially and mentally. I’m a big advocate for making everyone feel included and welcomed to our Next Level Gaming community, and I hope to create some great memories and experiences for everyone lucky enough to choose us!
Coach Jack
My name is Jackson Mansolillo and I’m a game coach at Next Level Gaming. I’m 14 years old and I’m going to be a freshman at Hammond High School. I have been swimming for 8 years and I swim for the Columbia Clippers. I also enjoy playing golf and am planning on playing for my high school team. I’m a member of Boy Scout Troop 75 and my rank is Star scout. I plan to continue with Scouting until I achieve my eagle scout rank. In July 2021, I went on a backpacking trip in Goshen, VA and hiked over 50 miles in 5 days with 5 other boys from my Boy Scout Troop. I had the best time ever even though it was challenging.
I’ve enjoyed playing video games since I was 7 years old. My favorite video game is MineCraft.
Coach Bryce
Hello my name is Bryce. I have been a gamer for 10 years and love working with kids so this job was a blessing! I work my hardest every party to insure everyone in the game truck has a great time no matter the age and I cant wait for the time I see you at our game truck! (best in Maryland).
Coach Kayla
Hey! My name is Kayla. I’m 16 years old and i’m currently a junior at Atholton High School. I’m in their JROTC program and I do cheerleading not just at school but also at Cheer Extreme in Rockville. I’ve been playing video games for as long as I can remember, learning about them from my older brother. My favorite video game is Minecraft. Hope to see you soon!
Coach Keith
Hi everyone, My name is Keith. I graduated from Linganore high school in 2016. For the next few years I had coached and directed color guards of ages 14-18. In 2018 I closed that chapter of my life and began working as a legal assistant in Columbia. Through that firm I was granted the opportunity to meet many life mentors one of which being Willie. I am driven and optimistic to make every engagement an opportunistic one.
Coach Jayda
Coach Emani
Hello everyone! My name is Emani and I was raised in Howard County for most of my life. I’m originally from New Jersey, but moved to Maryland when I was very young. I have an associates degree in Psychology from when I attended Howard Community College, but I decided this major was not for me. I’m now in my final year at University of Baltimore, and I’m currently studying Criminal Justice after switching my major my first semester. Video games are a great stress reliever from a long day at school and work!
I’ve always loved video games as a hobby since I was a young girl, and even now as a young adult. I’ve always enjoyed bringing people together with entertainment, and having the most fun I can bring to the group. It is important to me that you have fun and enjoy your experience to the fullest! I look forward to making each event the best it can be and make sure I exceed all expectations you have!
Coach Noelani
Hey there! My name is Noelani and I’ve been playing video games for as long as I can remember. Not only are video games entertaining, but I’ve also become closer with my family and friends because of them, which is extremely important to me. Connecting over the storylines, artwork, complexity, experiences, and excitement of video games is what makes it all so special. Myself, along with my friends and family have always been the fun, goofy, entertaining group of people that always bring joy to the heart and smiles to the faces of others.
Video games have always been my favorite hobby and stress reliever, so providing that same happiness, and stress relief, along with entertainment is what I hope to accomplish while working here at Next Level Gaming. I look forward to meeting you all and contributing to an amazing experience at your next event!
Coach MAson
