RUNNING WITH PURPOSE
AJDavisruns withpurposein everystep
EXCLUSIVES& RISINGSTARS
KINGHENRY
Theinspiration behindthe mission
BRIGHT MIND,BIG FUTURE
Theunstoppable spiritofRyan Bergerson
LETTERFROM THEEDITOR
Eliteisn’tatitle—it’sthejoy,discipline,andheart ouryouthbringtoeverystepoftheirjourney.
From the moment my two children entered the world—just eleven months apart—I watched something extraordinary unfold. Before their first birthdays, they were dipping their tiny toes into swimming lessons, and soon after, they were sprinting across flag football fields, twirling through dance classes, chasing soccer balls, and cheering with contagious joy. What struck me most wasn’t the activity itself, but the light in their eyes every time they tried something new.
By kindergarten, they were managing full schedules with a discipline far beyond their years. They weren’t motivated by trophies or applause. They were driven by pure joy—joy in learning, joy in growing, joy in showing up for themselves. That joy sparked something in me too.
It planted the seed for ACES Elite Youth Magazine.
I created ACES because I wanted a place where young people could see themselves—really see themselves. A place where their effort, their passion, their resilience, and their brilliance could be celebrated. A place where their stories could inspire others, and where they could take pride in the journeys they are building day by day.
ACES exists to amplify the impact of extraordinary kids in their schools, neighborhoods, and communities. We honor the young achievers who lead with heart, who work hard when no one is watching, and who remind us that excellence begins with enthusiasm.
To every young person featured in these pages—and to every parent, coach, mentor, and cheerleader behind them—thank you. Your commitment fuels this mission. Your stories shape this magazine. And your journeys remind us that greatness begins early, grows boldly, and shines brightly.
Welcome to ACES Elite Youth Magazine. Where youth excellence is seen, celebrated, and shared. With pride and purpose,
WE’RE CONTENTS
ARTS|Community
3
Eva Reid mixes crowns, courage, and pink‑bright confidenceintoalifealreadyfullofimpact.
CoverStory 7
The inspirational story of how two kids inspired a movementthatlaunchedACESEliteYouthMagazine.
Education 10
Ryan Bergerson shines through academic excellence, curiosity,andcharacterashebuildsabrightfuture.
Sports 13
A gifted young athlete grounded in faith, AJ Davis runs every race — and lives every day — with purpose, passion,andheart.
RisingandShining 15,16
BryanReidshinesthroughhardwork,disciplineandheart. AlexisRicksshinesthroughdance,artandimagination.
The
WorldAccordingtoHarlei 18
Harlei invites you to see life through her eyes as she growsintohergreatnessonefearlessstepatatime.
A HEART FOR SERVICE & A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Eva Reid
“Helping people makes me feel strong and proud.”
At just five years old, Eva Reid is already a force in the world of creative arts, leadership, and youth excellence. With a crown collection that rivals seasoned competitors and a heart for service that shines even brighter, Eva is proving that artistry isn’t just about performance — it’s about purpose, passion, and presence.
Eva has spent the last four years gracing stages across North Carolina and beyond, earning titles that reflect both her talent and her undeniable charisma. Her accomplishments include:
2026 Miss North Carolina Sunshine
Ambassador
We Miss Spectacular America — National
Titleholder
2025 We Miss Tar Hills — State
Titleholder
2025 Ultimate Mini Majestic, NC
Sunshine
Her pageant journey is more than crowns and sashes — it’s a creative outlet where she expresses confidence, storytelling, and personality. Whether she’s modeling, performing, or answering interview questions with her signature sass, Eva brings artistry to every moment.
SUBSCRIBE ACESEliteYouthMagazine
Join the movement that’s shaping tomorrow. By subscribing to ACES Elite Youth Magazine, you’re not just reading a publication — you’re fueling a powerful platform that uplifts, inspires, and promotes the next generation of leaders as they rise into their greatness.
“I WANT TO DO EVERYTHING — AND I WANT TO DO IT MY WAY.”
Creative arts aren’t Eva’s only passion — she is deeply committed to helping others. She volunteers with food pantries and blessing boxes throughout her community, showingcompassionfarbeyondheryears.
In 2026, she will join Paws and Protect, supporting first responders and animal shelters. Her dream is to become both a firefighter and a policewoman — a combination that perfectly matches her braveryandbigheart.
“PINK IS MY COLOR, BUT COURAGE IS MY STYLE.”
Eva’s creativity extends into athletics, where she explores movement, discipline, and expression through multiple sports: soccer, softball, dance, gymnastics and thisyear,basketball.
Eva is known for her kindness, especially toward quieter children who may not speak up for themselves. She leads with empathy, creativity, and a spark that inspiresthosearoundher.
Her blend of artistry, athleticism, and compassion makes her a standout in every space she enters — and a perfect example of what it means to be an ACES EliteYouth.
Soon
ACES Elite Foundation is dedicated to uplifting elite youth across the ACES pillars—Arts, Community, Education, and Sports—by providing the support, access, and opportunities they need to rise.
Supporting 1,000 families every year with $2,500 in financial assistance Delivering ACES Elite Wellness Fairs to schools and communities Expanding access to training, education, and developmental pathways Building healthier, more confident, and more empowered youth
RISING GREATNESS HowTwoKidsSparkedaMovement
I remember standing in church, praying for a baby—completely unaware that my son, Henry James Lewis III, was already “baking in the oven.” When he arrived, he was immediately taken to the NICU for fluid in his nose and jaundice. I prayed over him with everything in me. I asked God to make him strong, resilient, and ready for life.
God answered.
From the start, Henry was extraordinary. He absorbed the world like a sponge— curious, alert, and always on the move. Before he could even walk, I knew I had to channel that energy, so we enrolled him in the only activity he was old enough for: swimming lessons. He took to the water instantly, bringing the same enthusiasm he brought to every corner of our home. He never really crawled. Instead, he pulled himself up, determined to stand. By ten months, he was walking—fast. And once he started, there was no slowing him down. He climbed, jumped, squeezed under things, and scaled over others.
Oldfolkswouldlaughandsay,“he’s gettingoutoftheway.”
because just eleven months after his birth, his little sister, Harlei, arrived. From the moment she came home, Henry became her teacher, her challenger, and her first competitor. They turned everything into a race, a game, a lesson. By age three, Henry was enrolled in flag football and soccer. He didn’t love football at first, but soccer lit him up. When Harlei became old enough, she joined too—and that was the beginning of my life as a bonafide sports mom.
Every year, a new sport found its way onto our calendar: soccer, dance, swim, cheer, baseball (which he hated), basketball, tackle football, and now track. Today, our schedule is packed —practice, games, meets—every single day. And that’s just the sports.
people across the country who are out here grinding—kids who inspire adults, kids who get their parents out of bed at 5 a.m., kids who keep hope alive.
They are the dream. They are the future. They deserve to be celebrated.
ACES is more than a magazine—it’s a movement. A lifestyle. A platform for youth excellence to shine.
Welcome to the ACES Elite Youth Family. Let’s dream bigger, shine brighter, and rise together.
“SometimesIhearmyselfgivingthemapeptalk, andImayaswellbetalkingtomyself.”
But in our home, school comes first. Period. We have routines for homework, reading, comprehension, and study time during test season. Their discipline shows. Every year, they earn awards in Reading, Math, Art, and Leadership. They show up academically the same way they show up athletically: focused, committed, and hungry.
None of this is easy—not for them, and not for me. I’ve offered to let them drop activities, but they always say no. They love the grind. They love the growth. They love the competition. And watching them inspires me. Their work ethic pushes me to chase my own dreams with the same fire I expect from them.
Their determination sparked the idea for ACES Elite Youth Magazine. Their grit opened my eyes to the millions of young
Bright Mind. Big Future.
The Academic Excellence of Ryan Bergerson
At just nine years old, Ryan Bergerson is already proving that greatness begins in the classroom. His story started with resilience — born prematurely and spending his first 34 days in the NICU , Ryan entered the world fighting — and winning. Those early weeks were filled with uncertainty, but even then, he showed the resilience that continues to define him today. His journey began with a battle, and he has been rising ever since.
Now a thriving fourth grader at Gaston Christian School, Ryan is known first and foremost for his remarkable academic discipline. He consistently earns straight As, not because it comes easy, but because he approaches school with intention, curiosity, and pride. Ryan is the student who leans in, asks questions, and genuinely wants to understand the world around him.
“HE DOESN’T JUST DO THE WORK — HE OWNS IT.”
Ryan’s teachers often highlight his maturity and the way he carries himself in the classroom. He listens with intention, participates with confidence, and completes his work with care. He doesn’t rush — he thinks. He doesn’t settle — he strives. His academic habits are the kind that build leaders, scholars, and future innovators.
Outside the classroom, Ryan’s passion for sports shines just as brightly. He plays year round, embracing competition with enthu-
“HIS FUTURE IS BRIGHT NOT JUST BECAUSE HE’S SMART — BUT BECAUSE HE’S GROUNDED, KIND, AND DRIVEN.”
siasm and maturity far beyond his age. Whether he’s on the football field, the basketball court, or participating in another sport, Ryan brings intensity, leadership, and heart. Coaches admire his coachability, his drive, and his ability to lift up his teammates. He loves to win, but he values teamwork, sportsmanship, and effort even more.
What makes Ryan truly remarkable is his ability to balance so many responsibilities with ease. His schedule is packed with practices, games, schoolwork, and family time — yet he continues to excel in every area. His maturity stands out, but so does his fun, outgoing personality. Ryan loves to laugh, joke, and keep life entertaining for everyone around him. He is the perfect blend of a focused competitor and carefree kid.
Beyond his achievements, Ryan’s kindness is what leaves the deepest impression. He cares deeply about his family, friends, teachers, and teammates. He treats people with respect and compassion, carrying himself with a humility that makes him easy to root for. His journey from a tiny NICU baby to a thriving student athlete is a powerful reminder of what faith, perseverance, and love can build.
Ryan’s future is bright, and his story is only beginning. With his determination, intelligence, athletic ability, and caring spirit, there is no doubt he will continue to make a positive impact wherever he goes.
Runningwith
“We knew he was going to be something special when it came to sports.”
From the moment his parents
learned he was on the way, AJ was born into a life shaped by sports, discipline, and purpose. With both parents coaching at a local high school, his story began on the track — literally. His mother coached right up until the day he was born, and it’s no surprise that track and field would one day become his passion and his platform.
Growing up just three years behind his big sister, AJ spent his earliest days chasing her across the house, the yard, and eventually the field.
Purpose
-AJ DAVIS
“He was so strong it amazed us,”his parents recall, remembering the piggy back rides and fearless toddler adventures. Even then, AJ was drawn to anything that moved — balls, bikes, toy cars, and anything with wheels. “We knew he was going to be something special when it came to sports.”
the family scripture, Philippians 4:13. He prays for others without being asked and gives freely, even if it’s his last.
His athletic journey began with flag football, where his joy was unmistakable. He ran with a spark that lit up the entire field. His love for superheroes earned him the nickname “Flash,”and no matter the sport — football, basketball, or track — the comment was always the same:
“Man
he’s fast!”
When track season arrived, AJ proved it.
At his very first meet, he medaled in every event. His work ethic was unmatched. One night, long after bedtime, he insisted on going outside to run. At nearly 11 p.m., his parents watched as he put himself through sprint drills in the yard.
“He’s just that type of kid,” they say — driven, focused, and fueled by pure passion.
But AJ’s gifts extend far beyond athletics. He has what his parents call an old soul — a child with deep faith, compassion, and vision.
“Even children are given dreams and visions, and he has plenty.” He loves Jesus wholeheartedly and lives by
As a student athlete, AJ is already learning the importance of balance. Homework comes before practice, and naps between school and training are essential. His parents remind him often: “You are a student first.” They stress that education is the foundation — no college will offer opportunities without academic discipline. AJ understands that if he doesn’t handle the classroom, he doesn’t step on the field.
Above all, AJ believes his abilities come from God. He is grateful for both his intelligence and his athletic gifts. His family anchors their sports journey in 1 Corinthians 9:24–27, especially verse 26: “I run with purpose in every step.”
Today, AJ is a God fearing, Jesus loving, humble, intelligent athlete who loves family, friends, dirt bikes, trick bikes
AJ lives that truth every single day. one day competing in the Olympics. video games and remote-control cars.
At just eight years old, he dreams of becoming an engineer, playing in the NFL— especially the Raiders—and
“Whatever you are doing, do every bit of it with purpose.”
Rising & Shining
BRYAN REID
“Once Bryan sets a goal, he doesn’t stop until he reaches it.”
Bryan, we want you to know just how proud we are of you. Watching you grow this past year has been one of the greatest joys of our lives. At only eight years old, you’ve shown a level of dedication, courage,andheartthatinspiresuseverysingleday.
You took on football and karate at the same time, pushing yourself through two months of hard work while chasing your dream of earning your black belt — and you did it. The moment you achieved that goal, you didn’t slow down. You stepped onto the football field for your very first season with the Wildcatsandfellcompletelyinlovewiththesport.
Instead of settling, you chose to keep growing. Even when you felt a little behind, you trained harder. You showed up. You put in the work. You did group training with Coach Michael Allison at the Luv Center and private training with Coach Donnie Thompson through Takeover Training. We are so grateful to both coaches for pouring into you and helping you become stronger, faster, and more confident.
Bryan, your effort, grind, and dedication shine throughineverythingyoudo.Weseeit.Weadmireit. Andwecelebrateyouforit.Love,Mom&Dad.
A LIFE COLORED IN JOY, MOVEMENT & CREATIVITY
“YOU DON’T JUST MAKE ART - YOU MAKE MAGIC.”
Alexis, we are so incredibly proud of the bright, creative, joy filled young artist you are becoming. From the moment you stepped into your first ballet class at three years old, we knew you carried something special — a spark that shines in every dance step, every painting, every smile you share with the world.
Watching you grow from ballet into jazz, hip hop, and tap has been a gift. You dance with heart, confidence, and a happiness that inspires everyone around you. And the way you love people — the way you speak with kindness, respect, and joy — makes us even prouder.
Your art has become another beautiful part of your story. Seeing your work featured in the Gaston County Art Fair reminded us just how talented and imaginative you are. Whether you're drawing, painting, crafting, or designing nail art, you create with passion and purpose. With all our love, Mommy and Daddy.
CELEBRATE AN ELITE YOUTH RISING & SHINING
SUMBIT YOUR CONGRATULATIONS TODAY! SPACES ARE LIMITED
RECOGNIZE YOUR CHILD—OR AN ELITE YOUTH YOU ADMIRE—BY CELEBRATING THEIR HARD WORK AND ACHIEVEMENTS WITH A PERSONALIZED AD IN ACES ELITE YOUTH MAGAZINE!
The World According to
HARLEI
The world according to Harlei is full of motion, music, courage, and big hearted joy. In this column, she invites you to see life through her eyes as she discovers what she loves, who she’s becoming, and the greatness she’s growing into one fearless step at a time.
Hi! I’m Harlei, and I’m always on the move. Track is my favorite sport right now, and I’m really proud because after only two months of training, I won my first medal for getting third place overall in the 200m. Before every race, I say a little prayer in my head. I ask God to help me get focused, have courage and be strong so I can run my fastest. That’s what helps me shine.
I also love to dance. I’ve been dancing since I was three, and being on stage at the end of year recitals is one of my favorite things. When the music starts, I feel free and full of energy, like I can dance forever.
Cheer is super fun too. When we’re cheering at games and standing on the court or field with the players, it feels like I’m part of the game. Cheer makes me feel confident, and I love helping make the crowd happy.
At school, I’ve won the leadership award a bunch of times. I get it because I try to be kind, help my friends, and do good things. When I see other people doing good things too, it makes me feel really happy inside.
This column is my journey — told by me, in my own voice. Come with me as I explore sports, school, friends, faith, and all the greatness I’m learning I have in my own hands.
Welcome to The World According to Harlei.
