Prep Hoops Circuit Program Profile: FIFA Elite
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Coming out of the New Orleans metropolitan area, Cody Beaudette has worked to cultivate a familial based organization where the underdog mentality rises above all else. F.I.F.A. is not the commonly known sports game, but instead a clever acronym describing the brand, Family is First Always. Ultimately from the coaches down to the teammates, everyone has each-others back as they gear their community as a brotherhood. Let’s dive into FIFA’s founder Cody Beaudette.
A native of the Slidell region, Beaudette spurred his high school career at Northshore High School where he was fortunate enough to be named to the 1st team all-parish and 1st team all-district. One of Cody’s most memorable playing experiences was a moment before halftime where he did not have the confidence to take a jumper. In turn, Beaudette was chewed out by his head coach for lacking that confidence, but the tumultuous moment was a turning point not just in basketball but his outlook off the court.
The organization was originally created four years ago, previously known as Elfrid Payton elite. However, after a few difficult decisions the club decided to move another route, turning to the FIFA Elite brand we know today. The major issue was becoming a new brand where not many people know about you from the start. Through the turmoil, the program has made significant strides nonetheless. They feature two teams, a 2023 located in Slidell, Mandeville, Hammond, & Amite while the 2024 group out of Baton Rogue is in New Orleans, Houma, and Baton Rogue. Let’s get into a few names to know.
Jakobe Dykes Jakobe Dykes 6'5" | SF Shaun Dumas Academy | 2023 State LA – 2023 – Springfield
The 6’5 wing has a well-rounded game that is quite simply dominant against most competition. The smooth play of Dykes should continue to catch the eyes of evaluators all year.
Kohen Rowbatham Kohen Rowbatham 6'1" | CG St. Thomas Aquinas | 2024 State LA – 2024 – Northshore
Dependable offensive guard at 6’1 ~175 lbs that averaged 26 points per game as a sophomore. Proving to be a shooter at all three levels, especially potent as a pullup shooter. Rowbatham also works to be a lockdown defender against opposing guards. As of now the 2024 guard has offers from Southeastern, University of Fort Lauderdale, and Southern Mississippi.
Jahiem Johnson Jahiem Johnson 6'1" | CG Hammond | 2023 State LA – 2023 – Hammond
One of the state’s better point guards thanks to his ability to get downhill and make selfless plays. Johnson serves as a team leader and true point guard who looks to create first, score if needed.
James Bridges – 2023 – Northshore
At 6’2 195 pounds, Bridges possesses a high motor and is committed to doing the dirty work. He is absolutely committed to playing high energy defense while proving to have some elite reaction speeds.
Rob Johns – 2023 – Salmen
Johns stands at 6’ 180 pounds, a has a knack for making highlight level plays on defense. His strong frame allows him to take hits and put significant pressure on opponents who attempt to challenge him.
Reece Seicshnaydre – 2023 – St Paul
Seicshnaydre at 6’3 is an excellent shooter and should rise in prominence throughout the circuit thanks to his ability to hit shots off movement. Another aspect of his offensive game is his willingness as an opportunistic cutter around the basket.
Ronneal Harold Ronneal Harold 6'6" | PF Amite | 2023 State LA -2023 – Amite
At 6’7, Harold is a lengthy big with a 6’11 wingspan who has a quick hop. Harold will likely rise up across boards throughout the next few months as his skillset begins to advance.