On behalf of the Shaw family, it is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the passing of our CEO and Founder James Shaw, Jr.

Known to many as Coach Shaw, he was a visionary and pillar in his community who was passionate about being a servant leader. A serial entrepreneur, he dedicated his time to giving the youth an outlet to express their talents and worked diligently to expose them to opportunities that would help enhance their future. He founded his AAU basketball program, Georgia Tarheel Sports, in 2002 affording him a platform to connect directly with the younger generation in and around the southeast United States.  Coach Shaw had a big heart for the kids and families that he served, lifting many to new heights that would fulfill their dreams to play basketball at the collegiate and professional level.

In 2020, he took ownership of Jim Shaw ACE Academy in his hometown Winston Salem, NC after the passing of his father, James Shaw, Sr. With his innate ability to lead, Jim worked diligently to help students from diverse backgrounds to learn aviation, aeronautics, and financial literacy. He did all this with no prior aviation experience, while simultaneously being a loving father, husband, and dedicated mentor to many people. His contributions have expanded the ACE Academy to new dimensions and it is poised to continue growing and serving generations yet to come.

Coach Shaw’s legacy will live on through his family. To all, it was a privilege and honor to know and love him, and share the time he spent dedicating his life to the service of others.  He will forever be missed. He was a remarkable man who made a lasting impression on everyone he came in contact with, and we are committed to continue on with his life’s work. Thank you for your visits, cards, kind words, and support during this difficult time.

“The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone, but the things you do for others remain as your legacy.”

Georgia Tarheel Sports is a youth athletic organization designed to provide young athletes with a forum to develop and display their athletic skills and talents. The league is structured around and emphasizes the importance of continuing education, teamwork and good sportsmanship. Another very valuable asset is the positive interaction that the organization continually has with local schools, neighborhoods, city management and the business community. The program also has the privilege of uniting culturally diverse groups with the common goal of competing, learning and socializing. This aids in accomplishing the program's ultimate goal which is to help instill in our youth the vital importance of hard work, fair play and racial equality. Dedication to continuing education future plans is exhibited and handled in various instructional classes and seminars for participants. With all this in mind, the we would like to recognize the Atlanta area for their loyal support as they continue to be the driving force behind the success of Georgia Tarheel Sports.