The Team
Who We Are
Preston Kyles
Founder & CEO
Preston Kyles, widely known as Coach Pak, has traversed a remarkable journey shaped by resilience, passion for basketball, and an unwavering dedication to the sport. Born in the vibrant city of Chicago, Preston's life journey took him on a nomadic path before finding roots in Morris, Illinois during his formative years.
His enthrallment with basketball ignited during his time in sixth grade, a sport that would soon become his sanctuary and an integral part of his life's narrative. The allure of competitive games beckoned, and Preston immersed himself wholeheartedly, honing his skills and fostering an unbreakable bond with the game.
However, life's challenges presented themselves early on. Freshman year in high school brought an unforeseen curveball when his mother encountered legal issues, resulting in her incarceration. Amidst these turbulent times, basketball emerged as Preston's beacon of hope, providing solace and structure during a tumultuous period, even as he grappled with managing diabetes.
Navigating through the highs and lows, Preston's dedication to his family led him to make tough decisions, including stepping away from playing basketball during his sophomore and junior years to support his loved ones. Yet, his passion for the sport never wavered. Instead of competing on the court during his senior year, Preston transitioned to the sidelines, capturing the games through the lens of a camera, initiating his journey into the realm of coaching.
The pivotal moment arrived in 2015 when the Ottawa YMCA extended an invitation for him to coach and referee basketball—an opportunity that sparked the beginning of his coaching odyssey. As he delved deeper into coaching, his prowess led him to join the Illinois Ambush AAU program, marking the onset of his coaching career.
A serendipitous tournament encounter in 2018 led Preston to North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC), where his aspiration to complete his college degree materialized. Augmented by his determination, he secured a work-study role as the team manager for the basketball program, laying the groundwork for his transition back into college in August 2019.
Balancing the responsibilities of coaching, studies, and running the Iowa Ambush AAU program alongside Andrea Fuoss, Preston successfully graduated in 2021. A new chapter unfolded as he returned to NIACC as a volunteer coach while branching into personal training, nurturing a clientele base, and expanding his influence in the basketball community.
Further opportunities beckoned in 2022, propelling Preston toward the position of Head Coach for JV and assistant coach for the varsity at Osage High School. However, unforeseen circumstances prompted a relocation back to Illinois in November 2022, prompting a new chapter in his coaching journey.
Undeterred by challenges, Preston and Andrea founded their own AAU program and basketball training academy in Illinois, harnessing their collective expertise to shape aspiring basketball talents. Their vision is to propel their brand forward while continuing to make a profound impact in the realm of basketball training and development.
Preston Kyles, widely known as Coach Pak, epitomizes resilience, dedication, and an unyielding passion for basketball. His journey—from player to coach, mentor, and entrepreneur—stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport and his unrelenting pursuit of empowering aspiring athletes to reach their fullest potential.
Andrea Fuoss
Co-Founder
My journey in the realm of basketball began with humble origins, transforming into a profound passion, a fulfilling career, and eventually a way of life. The game has not only been a source of joy but has intricately shaped the course of my life in ways beyond imagination.
Originating in Central, IL at Iroquois West, I embarked on a successful basketball career throughout middle and high school. Achieving notable milestones, including a state appearance at both middle school and high school levels, my love for the game deepened. The pursuit of this passion extended beyond school into the realms of Travel Basketball, fostering a genuine connection with the sport.
Transitioning to Benedictine University marked the pinnacle of my collegiate playing career. Despite facing an abrupt end due to injury and hardship, this setback became a catalyst for discovering my true calling — coaching the game. Embracing the role of a leader and mentor for young athletes, I found fulfillment in guiding them to seize opportunities and maximize their potential.
During my senior year at Benedictine, a fellow teammate and I ventured into coaching, taking the reins of the High School girls program at Westmont High School. As the challenges of 2020 unfolded, I relocated to IA and assumed the position of Head Coach for the High School girls team at Iowa Ambush. Stepping into a leadership role, I continued to make strides within the Iowa Ambush program becoming Co-Director with Iowa Ambush and running their girls program.
Accepting the role of Head Varsity Coach for Charles City, IA, circumstances necessitated a return to my roots in IL. This marked the genesis of the rebranded Team Dream Chasers. Simultaneously, I took on the role of 8th-grade girls basketball coach at Paxton Buckley Loda middle school, contributing to a fresh start for the program. Additionally, I volunteer as a coach for the Girls Varsity team at Cissna Park.
The vision for Team Dream Chasers is rooted in providing access and opportunity to those willing to collaborate with us, mirroring the ethos of my own basketball journey. Beyond the court, my mission is to motivate athletes towards making informed life and career choices, recognizing that the only limits we face as humans are the ones we impose on ourselves.