Bronx Lacrosse: Empowering Youth Through Sport and Education

In the South Bronx, a neighborhood where the sounds of basketballs and baseball bats often echo, there is a new sound. It’s the sound of lacrosse balls hitting the back of goals, a sign of change driven by Dan Leventhal, founder of Bronx Lacrosse. This community program is redefining the future of lacrosse, focusing on the development of young individuals both on and off the field.

Leventhal, who played college lacrosse and participated in Teach for America, launched Bronx Lacrosse as a free, year-round academic and mentorship initiative in 2018. The program aims to keep middle and high school students motivated and accountable by engaging them in lacrosse.

“Lacrosse taught me invaluable lessons such as teamwork, responsibility, and leadership,” Leventhal shared in an interview with Newsweek. “It opened doors for me, leading me to Tufts University.”

After winning a national championship in college, Leventhal began teaching at Highbridge Green Middle School in the South Bronx. Seeking to connect with his students, he started playing lacrosse with them after school. The only requirements were punctual class attendance and maintaining good grades.

The students embraced the challenge, which inspired Leventhal to formalize the program. “I noticed the kids really started to engage,” he said. “Lacrosse became a tool to keep them on track and unlock their potential.”

Bronx Lacrosse’s team consists of skilled players and coaches from top collegiate programs. Their commitment extends beyond the season, fostering meaningful relationships with students, families, and community organizations.

Leventhal views the organization as more than just a sports program. It includes tutoring, mentorship, emotional skill development, and guidance for high school and college applications. The pandemic magnified challenges in the South Bronx, leading the program to emphasize school attendance vigorously. Ensuring students attend school is our top priority, he stated. Our staff even goes door-to-door to help get kids to school, producing tangible results.

In academics, the focus is on algebra readiness and basic math skills. Outside the classroom, students learn life skills like leadership and teamwork. The program initially targeted boys before expanding to include girls’ lacrosse, recognizing the differences in the game played by each group. The rising skill level showcases the potential of South Bronx youth on the field.

Lacrosse has historical roots dating back to indigenous Americans of the 1600s, yet it remains less accessible than some other sports. Traditionally, it flourished in upper-middle-class, predominantly white districts in the Northeast. A significant barrier for urban youths is the cost and availability of equipment and fields.

“Often, we’re limited to blacktop areas or basketball courts, but we adapt,” Leventhal noted. With the provision of equipment through donations, Bronx Lacrosse remains cost-free. Our kids have the talent, they just need the opportunity … we’re changing the game, he said, highlighting that the participants are predominantly black and brown students, who are not typically associated with the sport.

While statistics like attendance rates and test scores are impressive, stories of personal growth highlight the program’s impact. One notable success is Jordany, who arrived in the U.S. from the Dominican Republic at age six with limited English skills. Joining Bronx Lacrosse in middle school, Jordany found motivation and community, ultimately excelling in both academics and lacrosse.

“He became one of the top high school lacrosse players and earned a scholarship to play at the University of Delaware,” Leventhal shared.

The goal is to guide youth toward life opportunities and success, whether through college or other fulfilling paths. Leventhal emphasizes meeting kids where they are and encouraging their pursuit of success.