About Theo "Bubba" Daniels
Youth Legacy Foundation
Theo "Bubba" Daniels, born on October 9, 1937, in Bainbridge, Georgia. Theo graduated from Booker T. Washington Junior/Senior High School, in Miami, Florida, in 1956 and furthered his education at Florida A&M University (FAMU) in Tallahassee, Florida.
At FAMU, Theo showcased his athletic versatility across multiple sports. In football, baseball, and in track and field. Although Theo did not graduate from FAMU, his athletic prowess extended beyond college, as he played for the semi-pro football team "Miami Barracudas," earning the Most Valuable Player award as a defensive back in 1963.
Theo's commitment to sports and community development was evident through his coaching roles with semi-pro football teams in Miami Gardens and Overtown, including the Outcasts and Wranglers. He was a founding member of the Overtown Optimist Club, an organization dedicated to youth development through sports and mentorship. Additionally, he participated in the Old Timers Baseball League, reflecting his lifelong passion for baseball.
His contributions were recognized when he was inducted into the Miami Booker T. Washington Alumni Athletes Club Hall of Fame on November 6, 2010. Throughout his life, Theo received numerous awards and trophies for his dedicated work within the Miami-Dade community. He was an active member of the "Tree of Knowledge Club," which focused on community service, and was part of "The Shop Boys," a group of friends known for their camaraderie and positive influence in the community.
A remarkable son, father, grandfather, and mentor, Theo "Bubba" Daniels' legacy is marked by his unwavering dedication to sports, mentorship, and community service, leaving an indelible impact on the lives he touched in Miami and beyond.
*Pictured from left to right: Jesse Holt and Theo Daniels
Where are we located?
Building upon the legacy of Theo Baker "Bubba" Daniels—a pioneer in youth sports and co-founder of the Overtown Optimist Club in Miami—our foundation is expanding its mission to empower inner-city youth in Metro Atlanta. Since 1993, the Overtown Optimist Club has provided a safe, supportive environment where children can thrive through sports, academic enrichment, and mentorship. Now, by establishing a presence in Metro Atlanta, we aim to continue this legacy, offering programs that nurture personal growth, foster resilience, and create pathways to success for underserved youth.
Mission & Vision
*Pictured here is Theo (second from left) and his semi-pro baseball team
Our mission is to honor and perpetuate the legacy of Theo by empowering youth in disadvantage communities through sports, academic enrichment, and mentorship, fostering personal growth and positive life outcomes. This will be achieved by providing access to affordable, high-quality youth development programs, we aim to inspire the next generation to achieve their full potential.
Through our vision, we'll create a community where every young person has the opportunity to realize their full potential, inspired by the pioneering spirit and dedication of Theo B. Daniels, leading to a brighter and more equitable future.