Episode 10: 21 Questions with Debrina Wright — Why We Built REI Prep

What happens when the traditional school model doesn’t fit the life, goals, or opportunities of a student-athlete?In Episode 10 of the REI Sports Network, the questions get turned around as Debrina Wright, Co-Founder of REI Prep, steps into the guest seat for 21 Questions and shares the vision, purpose, and thinking behind building a different kind of educational experience for young people in sports.REI Prep was created around a simple reality: students shouldn’t have to choose between pursuing their education and pursuing the opportunities that can shape their future.Debrina breaks down what REI Prep actually is, who it serves, and why the program was designed to support more than traditional student-athletes. From basketball and competitive sports to esports, digital athletes, and students interested in careers throughout the sports industry, REI Prep is building an environment where education works alongside a student’s goals—not against them.The conversation explores the flexibility of online education combined with real-world experiences, NCAA-approved coursework, college preparation, athletic development, travel and competition, and the importance of creating community even when students aren't sitting inside a traditional classroom five days a week.Debrina also talks about the bigger picture: helping students understand that the sports industry extends far beyond playing the game. Media, business, coaching, operations, technology, esports, events, and countless other career pathways can all become part of how young people begin imagining their futures.And because supporting a student means supporting the family around them, the conversation also touches on parents, siblings, logistics, community, and why REI Prep continues to evolve around what families actually need.In this episode:Why REI Prep was createdWhat makes the REI Prep model differentSupporting student-athletes without sacrificing academicsNCAA-approved coursework and college readinessEsports and the Digital Athlete pathwayExploring careers throughout the sports industryCreating flexibility for training, travel, tournaments, and competitionBuilding community within an online educational modelSupporting families and siblingsPreparing students for life beyond the gameThe long-term vision for REI PrepThis episode is for student-athletes, parents, coaches, educators, and anyone interested in what education can look like when we stop asking young people to fit into one system—and start building systems that recognize where they’re trying to go.REI Sports NetworkWhere Sports, Education & Opportunity Meet.