HI-FIVE CHICAGO, IL

Brad Greenspan joined the Hi-Five Chicago team as Executive Director in 2018. His deep-rooted love for sports and unwavering commitment to Hi-Five's mission are inspired by the legacy of his late father, Gary Greenspan, the Founder of Hi-Five Chicago.

Having earned his Bachelor's degree in Communications and History from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Brad initially embarked on a career in the Sports Marketing industry. However, it was his formative years as a Hi-Five camper that truly illuminated the transformative power of sports in Brad's life.

Growing up as part of the Hi-Five community, Brad experienced firsthand the positive impact of sports on personal growth. It was here that he absorbed crucial values like sportsmanship, perseverance, and patience - skills that continue to shape his leadership style today.

Brad's enthusiasm for Hi-Five Summer Camp is palpable, as he describes the camp's vibrant atmosphere as "electric and energetic every single day." Whether he's donning a rubber duckie costume at camp or attempting a daring dunk on an NBA player, Brad brings an infectious energy to the Hi-Five experience.

Recently married and residing in River North with his wife, Brad relishes his free time spent with family and friends. Beyond his professional endeavors, Brad enjoys a diverse range of activities. An avid golfer, he also explores his culinary interests through trying new restaurants and passionately supports his favorite team, the Chicago Bears.

Brad Greenspan, with his extensive background, personal connection to Hi-Five, and dynamic leadership, is dedicated to carrying forward the legacy of his father and ensuring that Hi-Five remains a place where kids not only play sports but also cultivate essential life skills in a welcoming and enjoyable environment.

Robert Hawk, lovingly known as "Hawk" by campers and staff members, is a proud Chicagoan, born and raised in Northcenter. His journey with Hi-Five Chicago began in the year 2000, where he started as a camper and quickly became an integral part of the camp's legacy.

Since 2001, Hawk has dedicated himself to Hi-Five Chicago, seamlessly transitioning through various roles over the years. His passion and commitment culminated in his appointment as the Director of Operations in 2017, where he continues to shape the camp's experiences for campers and staff alike.

Hawk's formative years were spent at Von Steuben High School, where he not only excelled academically but also showcased his athletic prowess as a varsity baseball player. After High School, Hawk attended Columbia College Chicago, where he earned a degree in audio production and design.

Hawk is happily married to his beautiful wife, Jessika, who also works alongside him at the camp as their dedicated groundskeeper. As they navigate the joys of married life, the couple eagerly anticipates the arrival of their first child in March 2024. The couple also currently shares their abode with two cats (one of which was found during camp in 2022!) and a dog, all of which they love to spoil.

Beyond the hustle and bustle of city life, Hawk finds solace in camping and fishing, indulging in his love for the great outdoors.

Sports hold a special place in Hawk's heart, with football, basketball, and baseball topping his list of favorite sports. As a true Chicagoan, he proudly supports the city's iconic teams – the Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bulls, and Chicago Blackhawks. Whether cheering for his teams or orchestrating unforgettable camp experiences, Hawk continues to make a positive impact on the community he calls home.

Jessica has been a part of the Hi-Five Chicago family since its opening day in 2001, along side her beloved Uncle Gary. Every summer after with him was her favorite!

Fun fact: Jessica is responsible for giving Gary his infamous nickname, "The Penguin" and even made him his very first penguin costume out of poster boards!

Working for her Uncle Gary helped her realize her passion lies in helping kids to build their confidence and surpass their capabilities. She wants kids to learn patience, tolerance and acceptance of their peers. She believes Hi-Five educates children of all ages on the importance of teamwork, leadership, and confidence-building through engaging sports activities, with a sense of humor, of course!

In her free time, Jessica enjoys being with her family, especially her four nephews, and watching anything and all things Bravo TV!

She continues to look forward to each and every summer at Hi-Five and creating long-lasting summer memories alongside her cousin Brad and the rest of the Hi-Five Family! And most important to her is making sure her Uncle Gary would be proud and ALWAYS keeping his legacy alive!

Alyssa Rodriguez (she/hers/ella) is a proud product of Chicago Public Schools and Hi-Five Sports Camp. She became part of the Hi-Five Family before starting at Whitney Young Magnet High School in the summer of 2006 as a Counselor In Training (CIT) and hasn’t left since. During high school, she played varsity soccer all four years, ran cross country, and played on the volleyball team. Alyssa then attended Rutgers University, where she worked with psychology doctoral candidates to support families and children with experience in the foster care system as well as working at an ABA Speciality Research School for children with Autism. Alyssa came home every summer to work at Camp and brought whatever new skills she learned with her.

After returning home to Chicago in 2014, she worked at Catholic Charities while completing her MSW/MA degrees at Loyola University Chicago. She then began working at Chicago Public Schools as a school social worker. This past year, she transitioned from being a School Social Worker to a Social Emotional Learning Specialist supporting over 25 schools in developing comprehensive social emotional learning programs. She helps to create strong and caring school environments, supports social skill development, and loves to watch students grow year after year - all while showing up on Sundays for Basketball!

Marv Tuchman founded the very first Hi-Five location in the North Shore suburbs of Chicago in 1990. After a decade of success, he co-founded the downtown Chicago location with Gary Greenspan. Marv has been instrumental in laying the blueprint for what Hi-Five stands for today and continues to advise our management team. If you happen to stop by camp, you will see Marv's ongoing passion for the brand and our most famous program, Hi-Five Sports Camp!