Who We Are

At the Louisa Youth Athletics Association, our mission is to inspire and empower the youth of our community through football and cheerleading. We are committed to fostering an environment that emphasizes teamwork, discipline, respect, and a strong sense of community. By providing high-quality coaching, resources, and support, we strive to nurture athletic skills while also instilling values that help young athletes succeed both on and off the field.

Our organization believes in the power of sports to bring families and communities together, creating opportunities for growth, leadership, and lifelong memories. Whether through the roar of the crowd on the football field or the high-energy routines of our cheer teams, we are dedicated to ensuring every child feels included, supported, and celebrated. Together, we aim to build not just athletes, but confident, responsible individuals who embody the spirit of Louisa.

Meet the Executive LYAA Board

  • Charlie Elkins

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
    FOUNDER & FOOTBALL PRESIDENT

    Hello, I’m Charlie Elkins, President of LYAA Football. As a product of Louisa County Public Schools and Athletics, I am a proud 2009 graduate who participated in football, wrestling, baseball, and soccer. I have been volunteering as a coach in this Louisa-founded program for over six years and plan to continue long after my children have aged out.

    Growing up, sports helped shape my character and taught me life lessons I still value today. My goal is to be a role model for youth, helping them develop the same values that guided me. As president, I am excited about the future of LYAA and look forward to seeing our athletes grow both on and off the field.

  • Melisa Beavers

    ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
    CO-FOUNDER & CHEER PRESIDENT

    Melisa Beavers serves as the LYAA Cheerleading Board President and is passionate about fostering a supportive and empowering environment for young athletes. With three seasons of coaching experience and a child actively participating in the program, Melisa brings both leadership and firsthand perspective to the role. Dedicated to helping kids grow into their own, Melisa loves witnessing their confidence blossom as they develop new skills and build lifelong friendships. Under Melisa’s guidance, LYAA Cheer will strive to inspire teamwork, resilience, and community spirit.

  • Rob Regan

    PRESIDENT
    FOOTBALL VICE PRESIDENT

    Rob Regan is a newer resident of Louisa County coming from Ashburn Virginia. As VP of Football, he makes kids the priority!

    In Ashburn Rob coached several teams to championships at multiple Youth levels passing on the fundamentals, and love for the game. Rob has coached two seasons in Louisa and is excited to bring more opportunity to the Youth of our community and to develop current and future Lions for success on and off the field.

    “It is great to be a part of this new and growing team here in Louisa!”

  • Courtney Bishop

    PROGRAM DIRECTOR
    CHEER VICE PRESIDENT, CHEER DIRECTOR, & LYAA REGISTRATION COORDINATOR

    Courtney Bishop serves as the Program Director, Vice President, Cheer Director and Registration Coordinator for LYAA, bringing a lifelong passion and deep expertise in cheerleading to her role. A dedicated leader and advocate for youth athletics, Courtney has been immersed in cheer her entire life and now shares that love with her daughter, who is an active participant in the LYAA cheer program. Her commitment to fostering teamwork, discipline, and community spirit shines through her efforts to provide an exceptional experience for all athletes and their families.

  • Kayla Schaefer

    LYAA SECRETARY

    I am Kayla Schaefer, the Secretary for the Louisa Youth Athletic Association (LYAA). For the past two years, I have proudly served as a Team Mom, supporting young athletes and fostering their love for sports. With two boys deeply involved in youth athletics, I've come to understand the vital role that community plays in shaping their experiences and success.

    My goal is to help strengthen this community through effective organization and clear communication. It brings me immense joy to watch young athletes grow, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals. I am committed to providing the support and resources they need to thrive both on and off the field.

  • Amy Mack

    LYAA TREASURER

    I am Amy Mack, the Treasurer of LYAA. Originally from Idaho, I have been happy to call Louisa my home for the past 8 years. As a mom of four, I have enjoyed finding a variety of ways to become involved in our community. Through being an Election Officer, a foster care mom, and a PTA President and Treasurer, I love to find opportunities to connect with our local families, become more engaged in local events, and create a strong and supportive environment for my kids to thrive. Having a child in the LYAA football program, and a husband who coaches for LYAA, I am excited to also contribute to this organization. I look forward to helping LYAA grow and become a staple of the Louisa community. 

Meet the Supporting Board Members of LYAA

  • Emily Lowry

    CHEER
    SECRETARY AND SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR

    Emily Lowry serves as the Secretary, Social Media Director, and Registration Coordinator for the LYAA Cheer program, combining her organizational expertise with a lifelong passion for cheerleading. With a background in cheer, she brings valuable experience and enthusiasm to her role as a coach, inspiring young athletes to achieve their best.

    Emily loves working with the girls, helping them build their confidence, and watching them grow as individuals throughout each season.

    She is deeply connected to the LYAA community, with a child in the football program and a husband who coaches football, making their involvement a true family affair. Her dedication to both cheer and football reflects her commitment to fostering teamwork, personal growth, and a strong sense of community within LYAA.

  • Jen Phillips

    FOOTBALL
    SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR

    Jen Phillips strives every day to give back to the youth of Louisa County. As a mom of three, Jen has volunteered her time over the past 15 years with several youth sports organizations within Central VA. She is actively involved in both Louisa County Elementary and Middle School PTA’s and is serving as the Social Media Director for LYAA.

    She strives to provide the best experience for student-athletes within Louisa County. Jen feels that providing transparent communication is the cornerstone of a successful organization, and teamwork both on and off the field provides children the opportunities needed to succeed in life.

  • Chad Hensley

    FOOTBALL
    DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL

    Chad Hensley is the Director of Football for the Louisa Youth Athletic Association (LYAA) and a dedicated leader in youth sports development. Residing in the Green Springs area with his wife, Jessi, and their three children—Maci, Ella, and Chase—Chad has spent the past decade coaching tee-ball, baseball, basketball, and football across various Louisa sports organizations.

    Beyond coaching, Chad plays an active role in shaping the local sports community. He serves on the Louisa Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and is a Board Member for Louisa Little League, where he helps drive initiatives to enhance youth athletic programs. Passionate about mentorship and community engagement, Chad is committed to providing young athletes with the skills, confidence, and sportsmanship they need to succeed on and off the field.

  • Jessica Beck

    CHEER
    FUNDRAISING COORDINATOR

    Jessica has a deep commitment to the youth of Louisa County. Her dedication spans across the local school district, the church, and various community volunteer opportunities. With strong cheerleading experience—including coaching and cheerleading at the high school, competition, and recreational levels— Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the LYAA program. She fully embraces LYAA’s vision and values the lifelong benefits of team sports for children, both on and off the field.

  • Marla Fortner Regan

    FOOTBALL
    FUNDRAISING COORDINATOR

    My name is Marla Fortner Regan and I am a member of the Louisa Youth Athletic Association as the Football Fundraising and Sponsorship Coordinator. 

    I have been in Louisa for five years, carry the distinguished pleasure of being the proud Mom of a 2024 youth undefeated 11u Super Bowl Champion, have assisted the league by taking video and pictures, and support my husband Rob as a coach and league officer. 

    I have been an athlete my entire life starting with youth, middle school, and high school swimming, volleyball, and ultimately as a collegiate athlete in cross-country and track. 

    I have two son’s. One who is currently a proud Louisa Lion (LYAA) football player and travel lacrosse midfielder. My older son has been in travel hockey, is a Virginia State Title Champion in ice hockey, and played football for Hanover College. I’m a 20 year veteran at supporting youth athletes and have served as football team mom and team fundraising coordinator in many capacities throughout the years.

    I am proud to serve Louisa and look forward to many community engagements supporting our youth athletes.

  • Patti Walker

    CHEER
    CONCESSIONS DIRECTOR

    Patti Walker serves as the Concessions Director for the LYAA Cheer program, where her dedication and organizational skills help ensure a smooth and successful game-day experience. A passionate coach and proud mother of a child in the cheer program, Patti is deeply invested in fostering a positive and empowering environment for young athletes. Beyond cheer, she is an active member of her church and a dedicated community leader, consistently contributing her time and talents to initiatives that strengthen and support those around her.

  • Charles "Pappy" Elkins

    FOOTBALL
    CONCESSIONS DIRECTOR

    Charles proudly serves as the LYAA Football Concessions Director, keeping our fans fueled and our games running smoothly. A devoted father and grandfather to athletes in the LYAA program, Charles is a familiar face and a beloved part of our community.

    He also works for LCPS and is a true Louisa man through and through—his heart bleeds green and gold... with just a splash of orange for his beloved Tennessee Volunteers. Go Vols! With a big heart, an even bigger smile, and endless dedication, Charles is the kind of man who makes LYAA feel like family.