James Johnson
Founder
My Story
James is an alumnus of Junipero Serra High School, the College of San Mateo, and Bemidji State University in Minnesota. At Serra, he earned honors as a two-time First Team All-WCAL League player. He continued his football career at the College of San Mateo, where he was recognized as an All-Conference wide receiver and served as a team captain for the CSM Bulldogs.
His performance at CSM earned him a football scholarship to Bemidji State University, where he continued to excel both on and off the field. James graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management.
With over 23 years of coaching experience in various roles within the community, James takes pride in being the kind of coach who understands the deep and lasting impact he has on young athletes—both on and off the field. His passion for leadership and mentorship has fueled his mission to inspire and empower the next generation.
This drive led to the creation of NEXT PLAY!, an organization built to cultivate leaders who share James’s commitment to growth, resilience, and purpose.
Through NEXT PLAY!, James lives out his mantra and extends his impact by equipping others to carry that same torch forward.
Jabari Issa
Owner, Hammer Elite Athletics
Director of 5v5
San Mateo native, Jabari made his Mateo High before becoming a stand University of Washington, where he earned All-Pac-10 honors as a Husky.
Jabari's pro football journey includes
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Arizona Cardinals
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Houston Texans (2002)
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Pittsburgh Steelers (2003)
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Kansas City Chiefs (2005)
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Barcelona Dragons (NFL Europe, 2003)
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Edmonton Eskimos (2005-2007)
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Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2007)
He was also honored with induction into the Peninsula Sports Hall of Fame
—a testament to his impact on and off the field.
Now, Jabari is channeling his elite experience into developing the next generation through Hammer Elite Athletics, which he co-founded alongside fellow athlete-turned-coach JP.
At Next Play, Jabari is a core part of the team, bringing his passion, experience, and leadership to help us fulfill our mission-empowering athletes to succeed in sport
Denise Burch
Girls Flag Football
Coach Burch has been a dedicated leader in the sport since the launch of the Burlingame High School girls flag football program in 2023, where she currently serves as the JV Head Coach and Varsity Assistant Coach. Her coaching journey includes participation in 49ers PREP coaching clinics and other development workshops, continuously growing her skills and leadership.
With a true passion for mentoring young women and helping grow one of the fastest-rising sports in the country, Coach Burch embodies what "Next Play" is all about - resilience, growth, and the lasting impact of strong leadership.
Angelo Medina
Director Athlete Development
Owner, APEX 7v7
Angelo is dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for young athletes, just as he once had, and making sure they leave with lasting memories. He embraces a philosophy of “continuous growth” and the “Next Play” mentality, encouraging resilience and a forward-focused mindset. Angelo sees football as more than a game—it’s a way to foster character, discipline, and lasting friendships. He aims to empower young players to succeed both on and off the field by building confidence and leadership skills. Committed to the growth of both himself and his athletes, Angelo’s goal is to inspire the next generation to reach their full potential and always believe the best is yet to come.
Aimee Klarich
Administrative Coordinator
Parent Liaison
Aimee Klarich believes deeply in the power of sports to shape confidence, teamwork, and resilience in children and young adults. A former local athlete in Burlingame, she has carried that passion forward as a volunteer coach and team manager for countless youth sports teams. With long-standing roots on the Peninsula as a proud 5th generation native, Aimee is deeply connected to the community she serves. She is also proud that her Tabet & Klarich Group is a business supporter of this wonderful organization, continuing her commitment to giving back to local families and young athletes.