In the South Bronx, a shift echoes through the community. The sounds of lacrosse balls hitting goal nets replace the usual sports noises. Dan Leventhal, founder of Bronx Lacrosse, sees these fields as the future of the sport. With roots as a former college lacrosse player and a Teach for America corps member, Leventhal has created more than just a sports program. He established Bronx Lacrosse in 2018 to offer free, year-round academic and mentorship opportunities for middle and high school students.
Leventhal’s journey began at Highbridge Green Middle School. Inspired by his Teach for America experiences, he shared his love for lacrosse with students. Participation required two commitments: punctual attendance and maintaining good grades. This approach resonated with students, leading Leventhal to formalize the program, aiming to unlock young potential through sports.
The success of Bronx Lacrosse lies in its devoted staff. These players and coaches from top collegiate programs engage deeply with students. The program transcends sports seasons, maintaining connectivity throughout the year. Tutoring, mentorship, and social-emotional learning form part of the curriculum alongside sports. High school and college application support broaden the opportunities for participants.
Chronic absenteeism surged post-pandemic in the South Bronx. Bronx Lacrosse intensified efforts to ensure school attendance, sometimes involving staff personally escorting students. Academic focus includes algebra readiness and mathematical fluency, complemented by leadership and teamwork skill-building outside the classroom.
Initially, the program catered only to boys but expanded to include girls’ lacrosse after two years, marking significant skill growth among participants. Lacrosse, largely perceived as a niche sport for affluent, white communities, faces accessibility challenges in urban areas. Bronx Lacrosse counters this with free access to necessary gear through partnerships and donations, thereby dismantling barriers.
Leventhal’s vision of inclusivity manifests as more black and brown students enter the sport. Attendance and academic performance metrics bolster this vision, yet individual stories of transformation truly illustrate impact. Jordany, a senior who joined the program with limited English skills, exemplifies this change. Now a nationally ranked player with a full scholarship to the University of Delaware, his journey underscores the program’s profound effects.
As Leventhal asserts, the primary goal is to meet students where they are, guiding them toward success in education and beyond. Bronx Lacrosse continues to redefine the sport’s landscape, offering unparalleled opportunities for its youth.
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