Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Nate Daniels? I’d describe myself as someone who is passionate about motivating and inspiring young people. Growing up, I had incredible coaches, mentors and teachers who provided opportunities and guided me along the way. That inspired me to dedicate my life to doing the same for the next generation – especially for young athletes chasing the same dreams I once did.
Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Virginia, but because my father was in the Army, we moved around a lot when I was young. I spent a few years living in Europe before we moved back to Virginia and eventually settled in Fairfax. I attended and graduated from Fairfax High School.
What was your upbringing like?
I was raised by both of my parents. My mom was an educator, and my dad served in the military for 20 years as an MP. Upon his retirement, he became the Captain of Police at George Mason University. From an early age, my parents instilled strong family values and a sense of discipline in my siblings and I. They encouraged me to make a positive impact on my community and to leave every organization I was part of better than I found it
They also wanted me to be well-rounded, so they kept me in a variety of activities growing up – sports, band and orchestra, Boy Scouts, and more. That balance of structure, service and opportunity shaped who I am.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I was a four-year starter at Defensive Back and an All-American candidate for the Panthers at Ferrum College. After college, I had the opportunity to attend a Rookie Camp with the Baltimore Ravens before going on to play professionally in the Arena Football League for six seasons.
Along the way, I have been inducted into both the Ferrum College Alumni Sports Hall of Fame and the Fairfax High School Sports Hall of Fame.
My career as an athlete taught me lessons in resilience, discipline and perseverance that I still carry with me. I’ve been blessed to create a career in sports, first as a Sports Performance Coach and owner of a performance gym for athletes and now with Next Level Athletes.
What is your official title and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I’m the owner of Next Level Athletes, where I help athletes, coaches, and parents navigate the complexities of competitive sports to reach the next level – whether that’s making the team, earning a starting spot or playing in college. My work is about giving families real advice, honest insight and proven strategies so they can navigate this journey with confidence.
I’m also a motivational speaker. I’ve appeared as a guest expert on Dr. Phil Primetime and delivered a TEDx talk. I regularly speak to parents, athletes, and coaches at events, conferences, and workshops on topics like athlete development, the mental game, and how to navigate today’s ultra-competitive youth sports landscape
I’m a published author too of a series of sports-inspired children’s books – So You Want to Be A Pro, So You Want to Be a Hoop Star, and So You Want to Be a Big Leaguer. They were created to inspire, encourage, and motivate young people to chase their dreams with confidence and character.
How important is family to you?
Family is the foundation of my life and a priority for me. I’ve been blessed with a family who has always supported and loved me unconditionally, and I attribute much of the success I’ve been able to have to their constant encouragement and belief in me.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
Wynton Marsalis, Aerosmith, Garth Brooks, Boyz to Men, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, The Temptations, The Jackson Five , Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.
How would you describe your relationship with the City of Roanoke?
While attending Ferrum College, I spent a lot of time in Roanoke and enjoyed the years I spent in the Star City. Roanoke supported Panther football during my time at Ferrum. Later, I had the opportunity to play arena football for the Roanoke Steam. We played our home games in the Civic Center, which is now the Berglund Center. The fans were great and always showed me a lot of support. I loved representing the City of Roanoke every time I took the field for the Steam.
Outside of your profession, what do your hobbies consist of?
I enjoy working out, listening to live music and traveling. Staying active has always been a part of who I am, and I love the energy that comes from live music. Traveling gives me the chance to experience new places and cultures.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of your family?
It would be impossible to name everyone who has made an impact on my life, as there are too many to name. I was blessed with coaches, mentors and teachers who helped mold me into who I am. I’m grateful to all of them and they know who they are.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self to be grateful for the triumphs, but also embrace the adversity. The hard times shape your story just as much as the victories, and often they teach you the most.
