Meet The Team

PlayMakers USA was founded in 2024 by two West Linn dads who wanted their children’s passion for youth athletics to be met with unforgettable experiences. They created an opportunity for the perfect balance of fun, competition, and personal growth. We have a strong belief in the transformative power of sports to inspire, empower, and develop young athletes. PlayMaker’s mission is to create a positive, supportive environment where kids can sharpen their skills, build confidence, and make lasting friendships.

A secondary mission of the founders is to create an opportunity for parents to connect and create a better community through youth sports. You can look forward to extra opportunities throughout the year to get together and get to know the community.

Co-Founder

Tony Pilla

Tony had the foresight many years ago that there was a better way to engage our youth in athletics. His vision was to create an opportunity for parents to connect and create a better community through youth sports. A big piece of his recipe is FUN! You will see him out on the courts and field, jamming to music and cheering the kids on. A resident of West Linn, and father of two young athletes, Tony brings all his passion to PlayMakers. You will see him coaching around town as well as playing in MANY soccer leagues.

Co-Founder

Jeoff De Waele

Jeoff is a proud husband and father of two boys, 6 and 9 years old. Since moving to West Linn in 2022, he’s been actively involved in the community—especially through youth sports. As a business owner and volunteer coach, he dedicates much of his time to mentoring young athletes and fostering a positive environment for kids to learn, grow, and have fun through baseball. Jeoff has coached multiple seasons and takes pride in helping instill teamwork, discipline, and confidence in young players. Outside of coaching, Jeoff stays active—whether it’s working out, playing baseball, or shooting hoops. Living a healthy, balanced lifestyle is a priority he aims to pass on to both his kids and the athletes he coaches.

Board Advisor - Soccer Programs

Coach Justin

Coach Justin has over 35 years of experience playing soccer at many levels and still plays competitively. He is a father of two West Linn students and loves to share his passion for the game with everyone - young and old.

Board Advisor - Advanced Basketball Programs

Brian Conklin

Coach Brian is a proud husband to Kristina and a father to two young athletes, Benson (9) and Grace (6). Basketball is his greatest passion as a 13 year professional having played all over the world, winning numerous individual and team accolades. Brian's journey from Oregon to the international basketball scene is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and dedication. His story continues to inspire aspiring athletes and serves as a reminder of the global opportunities available to those who pursue their passions relentlessly. Many youth sport coaches helped develop his craft since he began as a young boy at 8 years old. Brian believes it’s time to pass on the torch to the next generation and is thrilled to be joining PlayMaker as the Advanced Basketball Coach, focussing on program development and private training sessions for youth athletes ages 8-14.

Board Advisor - Basketball Programs

Coach Andrew

Coach Andrew is a proud Husband to Katie and a father to two young athletes (Riley 8 and Jack 4). Andrew is also born and raised in West Linn and loves to give back to a community that has given him so much. Basketball has always been a sport that Andrew has been passionate about his entire life and is very excited to pass that along to the next generation of athletes.

Director of Operations

Sabrina Whitman

Sabrina brings a strategic outlook to the team. With a strong background in business operations, non-profit organizations and children’s programs her skills touch the program in many areas. A mother to two West Linn primary children, you will see her at games as well as helping with summer camp! She loves to spend time with family, be outdoors, sing/dance and stay active in the gym and out. She looks forward to holding a dance workshop during Permanent Recess Summer Camp this year.

Camp Director

Valerie Russell

Valerie is our wonderful Camp Director and you can look forward to seeing her at drop off each morning. Valerie loves spending time with her grand kids, baking and staying active at the gym.

Media Specialist

Janna Murphy

Janna is our Media Specialist. She helps by taking pictures, providing marketing collateral and networking within the community. She and her husband are new parents to a beautiful baby girl. In her free time she enjoys spending time with family, exploring Oregon and growing her jiu jitsu skills!