Our Values
P – Purpose Through Education The degree and experience drive long-term success.
L – Level-Appropriate Placement Positioning athletes where they can thrive, not just compete.
A – Authentic Evaluation Honest, unbiased assessments with no hype.
N – Next 40 Mindset Every decision is built for long-term impact.
Why Families Choose 4for40
The college recruiting landscape has evolved into a highly competitive and complex process, with thousands of student-athletes competing for a limited number of roster spots while families navigate an overwhelming mix of camps, exposure opportunities, recruiting timelines, and coach communication often without a clear strategy. 4 for 40 stands apart as a trusted expert in this space, having helped guide student-athletes to earn over $1,000,000 in scholarship value, demonstrating the real financial impact of a well-executed recruiting strategy and the true value of proper guidance. Led by a former Division I athlete and experienced coach with more than 25 years of evaluation expertise, our team provides honest, objective assessments to position athletes at the right level, whether that’s Division I, II, III, Ivy League, or power 5.
We deliver a structured, strategic approach that supports both the athlete and the parent throughout the entire process, saving families time, reducing stress, and avoiding costly mistakes. With a strong network of college coaches and advisors, we offer real-world guidance rooted in experience, not hype. At 4 For 40, we believe in strategy over shortcuts, Fit Over Flash helping student-athletes maximize opportunities both academically and athletically. Because this decision isn’t just about four years, it’s about the next forty.
MEET THE TEAM
Will
William “Willie” Wilkes
Founder
William “Willie” Wilkes has long been known across the country by one simple phrase:
“Let’s call Coach Wilkes — he’ll know.”
A proud graduate of St. Peter’s Preparatory School, Wilkes built his foundation in a disciplined, faith-driven academic environment. As captain of the 1985 county championship team, he led Prep to a 10–1 record, the most wins in school history at the time, anchoring a dominant defense that allowed just 30 points all season. His standout performance included seven interceptions and a championship-clinching 89-yard pick-six against North Bergen.
Wilkes’ impact extended into the state playoffs, where he showcased his versatility — contributing on offense, defense, and special teams, helping secure the program’s first-ever playoff victory and a berth in the state finals. He earned Lion’s Club Defensive Player of the Year honors along with All-County and Parochial All-State recognition at both wide receiver and defensive back. He went on to earn a scholarship to Rutgers University, where his defining moment came during his senior season: a two-interception performance, including a touchdown return against Kentucky, earning him National Player of the Week honors.
After his playing career, Wilkes returned to St. Peter’s Prep, dedicating 18 seasons to coaching and mentoring young athletes. During his tenure, the program captured 15 county championships and two undefeated state titles (1994 and 2005), achieving Top 5 national rankings. The 2005 championship held special meaning, as he coached alongside his son Khalil, who contributed as a freshman.
In recognition of his lifelong impact on the game and community, Wilkes was inducted into the Hudson County Sports Hall of Fame in 2022.
Coach Wilkes’ legacy is built not just on wins, but on guiding athletes toward the right fit for long-term success.
Steve
Stephen A. Oliver
Co- Founder/Academic & Athletic Planning Advisor
Stephen A. Oliver’s story begins in a public high school locker room, where discipline was not given; it was earned. A multi-sport athlete in football and wrestling, he developed the core principles he still lives by today: toughness, preparation, accountability, and resilience.
At Montclair State University, Steve competed at a high level while balancing academics and athletics. In a defining moment, he returned to the wrestling mat after football season to fill in at heavyweight when a teammate was injured, an act that reflected his team-first mentality and willingness to embrace challenges for something bigger than himself.
After college, Steve stayed close to the game by coaching multiple youth sports, including wrestling, football, baseball, softball, and basketball. Through coaching, he continued to instill the same discipline, mindset, and life lessons that shaped his own journey.
Today, Steve is the Founder of Manhattan Ridge Advisors, a respected New York-based financial advisory firm. He leads with the same discipline and long-term mindset that defined his athletic career.
Family remains central to his mission. A proud father of three, all public-school educated, his children have gone on to compete and succeed at institutions like Princeton, Penn State, and Rutgers, continuing a tradition of balancing academics and athletics.
His journey reflects a simple philosophy:
Compete with purpose. Build for the long term. Lead by example.
Anna
Anna Cepda-Mays
Senior Director, Marketing & Business Operations
Anna Cepeda-Mays is a seasoned marketing and business leader with more than 25+ years of experience building brands, developing strategies, and leading initiatives across global organizations. As Senior Director of Marketing & Business Operations at 4for40, she brings a strategic and growth-focused approach to strengthening the organization, expanding its reach, and creating meaningful experiences for student-athletes and their families.
Throughout her career, Anna has been recognized for her ability to turn ideas into action, build strong partnerships, and lead with both purpose and practicality. She is passionate about helping young people recognize their potential, build confidence, and position themselves for opportunities that extend beyond athletics.
Dylan
Dylan Wilkes
Director of Social Media
Dylan Wilkes serves as Director of Social Media for 4FOR40, bringing creativity, firsthand recruiting experience, and a strong understanding of how student-athletes build their personal brands. A standout at West Orange High School, Dylan was named Conference Player of the Year as a senior after an outstanding season of 81 goals and 23 assists. She also earned Colonial Conference Girls Lacrosse First Team All-Star honors and became the first girls’ lacrosse player in West Orange history recruited to a Division I HBCU program. Dylan continued her athletic career at Delaware State University, competing at the Division I level.
At 4FOR40, Dylan leads social media strategy, content creation, athlete storytelling, brand consistency, and digital engagement. Her experience as a recruited Division I athlete gives her a unique perspective on helping young athletes understand how their digital presence can strengthen their recruiting journey and personal brand.