Coach Max in the Community

For more than two decades, Coach Max Langaard has been a positive force in the Bay Area—mentoring youth, building leaders, uplifting schools, and using basketball as a tool for confidence, connection, and growth.

Below are stories and features from local and national media highlighting his work on and off the court, from transforming playgrounds to supporting young athletes and families across our community.

Coach Max on GMA!

Coach Max and Coach Matthew appeared live on Good Morning America (New York City) on June 3rd 2020 about their working relationship and how basketball brought them together and continues to change young lives!

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From Playworks to Max Skills

Before launching Max Skills Basketball Camp, Coach Max Langaard made his mark working with youth across the Bay Area—helping kids find confidence, leadership, and joy through play. His time with Playworks (formerly Sports4Kids) shaped his passion for mentorship and community-building through basketball.

2017 Jump Rope for Heart Outstanding Volunteer

Coach Max’s commitment to youth extends far beyond basketball. In 2017, he was recognized as the Jump Rope for Heart Outstanding Volunteer, honoring his dedication to supporting students, encouraging healthy habits, and helping young people grow through service, movement, and community involvement.

This recognition reflects the same heart Coach Max brings to every gym, school, and program he’s part of — leading with purpose, showing up for kids, and creating positive impact both on and off the court.

Coach Max’s Advocacy in Oakland

Coach Max has always been a champion for kids—on the court, in the classroom, and throughout the community. During his time as a PE teacher at Franklin Elementary in Oakland, he raised early concerns about the school’s unsafe, decades-old playground and helped bring much-needed attention to the issue.

His advocacy, along with that of families and school staff, contributed to a community-wide effort that ultimately drew support from the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, led by Steph and Ayesha Curry, Kaboom, and OUSD.

The KRON4 story below captures how this collaboration helped bring a brand-new playground, court, and school garden to life for Franklin students.

Community Service Through Basketball

Coach Max has always believed that basketball can shape strong players—and even stronger people. While coaching at Encinal High School, he and his varsity team sponsored children undergoing cancer treatment, raising funds, buying gifts, and showing up for families who needed support. This article captures one of the many ways Coach Max inspires young athletes to lead with heart.

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