MEET
THE TEAM
Marri Woodard
Lead Producer
Marri Woodard is the Lead Producer of ATHLETES NEVER DIE and a Mass Media Arts major at Clark Atlanta University. He is passionate about telling authentic stories through sports media and creating content that inspires athletes and communities through photography, videography, and creative storytelling.
“Every athlete has a story worth telling. My goal is to make sure those stories live forever through powerful visuals and authentic storytelling.”
Brendan Ard
Creative Director | Storytelling & Brand Development
ATHNVRDIE means more to me than just a brand—it’s a reflection of my story and the mindset that shaped me growing up. I was raised by a single mom alongside my brother, and watching the sacrifices, struggles, and determination around me pushed me to become the person I am today. Sports gave me purpose, discipline, and a way to fight through adversity, and those experiences are a huge part of who I am. When Jeff and I first started talking about the idea behind ATHNVRDIE, I was immediately locked in because I saw the vision for something bigger than clothing. I saw an opportunity to tell real stories—stories of athletes who carry pain, pressure, setbacks, and sacrifice, but keep going anyway. To me, ATHNVRDIE represents resilience, brotherhood, and the mentality that what you build through sports and adversity never truly dies.
“To me, ATHNVRDIE represents resilience, brotherhood, and the mentality that what you build through sports and adversity never truly dies.”
Ahmad Baron
Chief Brand Officer (CBO)
As Chief Brand Officer, Ahmad Baron leads the vision behind ATHNVRDIE’s brand identity, apparel, merchandise, and creative marketing strategy. From developing collections to ensuring every product reflects the mission of the company, Ahmad believes merchandise is more than clothing—it’s a way to represent purpose, pride, and community. As a former athlete, he has seen firsthand how sports shape character and influence lives long after competition ends. He is passionate about building a brand that inspires athletes and creates positive solutions through sport.
“A logo is just a symbol until it represents a purpose. My goal is to build a brand that athletes proudly wear because it reflects who they are—not just what they played.”
Quantez Parks
Chief Strategy & Finance Officer (CSFO)
Quantez Parks oversees ATHNVRDIE’s financial strategy, budgeting, and long-term growth. A lifelong sports enthusiast and entrepreneur who has successfully built and sold businesses, he understands the power of combining sound financial leadership with a meaningful mission. He believes athletics can be a catalyst for stronger communities, and he is committed to ensuring ATHNVRDIE uses its resources responsibly to create opportunities that leave a lasting impact.
“Every dollar should create opportunity. When strategy and purpose work together, communities don’t just survive—they grow.”
Jeff Whitaker Jr.
Co-Founder & Chief Serve Officer (CSO)
Jeff Whitaker Jr. serves as the Co-Founder and Chief Serve Officer of ATHNVRDIE. His mission is to serve athletes by leading a movement centered on storytelling, opportunity, and community. After losing his mother, Jeff found purpose through athletics beginning at age 13. He went on to become a National Champion and two-time SEC Champion at Auburn University (2010–2014). Today he is an entrepreneur, mentor, speaker, and advocate for athletes, helping high school and college athletes through storytelling, branding, and NIL education. His vision is to build an organization that preserves athletes’ stories while creating opportunities that extend far beyond the game.
“The game may end, but the athlete never does. My purpose is to ensure every athlete knows their value extends far beyond the scoreboard.”
Mission
Serving athletes through storytelling, opportunity, purpose, and community.
Vision
Every athlete recognized. Every story remembered. Every community strengthened.
Brand Promise
Built By Athletes. Owned By Athletes.
Slogan
It's not the 1% who makes it, but the 100% who benefits from it.