We established the Michael T. Lyons Foundation to honor our son and brother by continuing his legacy of empowering youth to reach their full potential through athletics. Throughout Michael's life, he learned and matured through athletic endeavors from Anklebiters to college football. His lifelong dream was to share his love of sports - and the many lessons imparted to him by his mentors - with another generation of youth. Michael viewed team sports as a way to grow friendships, build self-esteem, develop self discipline, encourage a healthy lifestyle, and teach reliance on, and adaptation to, others. He had just begun to focus on his goal as a basketball coach and youth mentor when his life was tragically cut short at age 28 by cancer. The Michael T. Lyons Foundation will focus on allowing diverse youth to learn and grow as Michael did through athletic programs and adult mentorship.

The Michael T. Lyons Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, will support those families experiencing financial hardship by providing financial help to young people who want to experience the joy of playing sports.