NERR Staff
Dylan Thayer
Director | Contact/ X/ IG
Dylan joined NERR in 2023 and has swiftly become an essential part of the team, managing daily operations across the board. He started out as a site manager for both our prep and grassroots events, balancing this role with a co-op position at Zero Gravity and finishing his master’s degree at UMass Amherst.
After graduating in 2023, Dylan stepped into a full-time role as the Director of Operations. In this position, he has become a key player in coordinating the behind-the-scenes activities that keep New England basketball running smoothly. He also spearheaded the creation of our inaugural internship program for the fall semester of 2023-24, guiding five college students through event operation and the basketball media world, as well as directing the inaugural NERR x ZGXL scouting team in the spring of 2024.
Heading in 2025, Dylan has quickly established himself as one of the most respected people in grassroots basketball in New England. His innovative approaches and dedication have not only enhanced the efficiency of NERR's operations but also fostered a collaborative environment among staff, coaches, and players. Dylan’s ability to connect with emerging talent has led to increased participation and engagement in our events, further solidifying NERR’s reputation as a cornerstone of grassroots basketball in the region. As he looks to the future, Dylan is committed to expanding NERR's reach and impact. He aims to develop additional educational initiatives and mentorship programs that empower young athletes and aspiring coaches alike. With his passion for the game and unwavering commitment to excellence, Dylan is poised to leave a lasting legacy in New England basketball, inspiring the next generation of players and leaders in the sport.
Zack Sandberg
Director of Events| Contact / X / IG
Zack's journey with the NERR began right after he graduated from Vermont Academy in 2015. Starting as a correspondent, his responsibilities spanned from updating the NERR Database & website to supporting director Adam Finkelstein's scouting service, while crafting articles. By 2019, Zack had transitioned into the role of the second full-time employee at NERR.
In 2022, Zack assumed the pivotal role of Director of Events. Under his guidance, the Prep National Championship Series burgeoned into the country's premier collective prep event, hosting over 100 different scholastic basketball teams throughout the prep school season. Not stopping there, Zack created the Girls Hoop Series, an annual event crowning the unrivaled Girls Prep Basketball National Champion.
A proud New Englander, Zack finds immense fulfillment in spotlighting deserving prospects and aiding them in realizing their aspirations to play at the next level. Beyond the basketball realm, Zack applies his expertise in sales, showcasing his versatility and dedication to excellence. He has an undergraduate degree from the University of Delaware, where he served as a 4 year manager of the Men's Basketball Program.
Shay Pipe
Head Statistician/ Basketball Operations Intern | Contact /X
Shay joined the NERR team in the fall of 2023, shortly after her graduation from the St. George's School in Rhode Island. While taking a gap year in 23-24, Shay took on the role of managing the stat taking at our prep events, and was a critical part of the inaugural NERR x ZGXL scouting team. Her keen eye for talent, hard work, and incredible work ethic quickly distinguished her as a valuable asset to the organization. Shay’s analytical skills and attention to detail allowed her to capture crucial game insights, providing invaluable data to coaches and scouts alike.
Another Rhode Island native, Shay enjoys spending time with her family, and relaxing by the beach. Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree at Fordham, she is currently a student manager of the Men's Basketball team.
Elias Benaka
Scout/ Basketball Operations Intern | Contact / X
Elias was the first member of our NERR College Internship program to transition into a permanent role with the NERR team. He joined NERR in early 2024, bringing a fresh perspective and an enthusiastic desire to immerse himself in the grassroots basketball scene in New England. From day one, Elias demonstrated a remarkable eagerness to learn and adapt, quickly becoming a valuable asset to our organization.
As a member of the inaugural NERR x ZGXL scouting team, Elias gained hands-on experience in talent evaluation and player development. His natural ability to analyze player performance and identify potential has set him apart as an insightful scout. He actively contributed to the team's scouting reports, showcasing his strong work ethic and attention to detail.
In his permanent role, Elias has taken on increased responsibilities, assisting in event coordination and player outreach. His passion for the game is matched by his commitment to helping young athletes reach their full potential. As he continues to grow professionally, Elias remains focused on fostering a supportive environment for athletes and helping them navigate their journeys in the sport. His enthusiasm for basketball, combined with his commitment to excellence, makes him a key player in shaping the future of NERR and the broader basketball community.
Hooprootz
Director of Middle School | Contact
Hooprootz became a full part of the NERR Umbrella back in 2019. Since then, we have partnered together to host the annual "Junior Elite 75 Showcase" held every March.