Bronx Lacrosse: Transforming Communities Through Sport

In the South Bronx, a new sound joins the familiar rhythm of bouncing basketballs and clacking metal bats. It’s the sound of lacrosse balls hitting the goals on the turf fields. Dan Leventhal, the founder of Bronx Lacrosse, sees these fields as vital to the future of lacrosse. Leventhal, a former college lacrosse player and Teach for America member, created a community extending beyond sports. Bronx Lacrosse, founded in 2018, offers a free academic and mentorship program using lacrosse to motivate middle and high school students.

Leventhal shared with Newsweek, “Growing up, lacrosse taught me invaluable lessons like teamwork, leadership, and responsibility. It opened doors to opportunities, leading me to Tufts University.” Winning a Division III national championship in 2014 positioned Leventhal to impact lives when placed at Highbridge Green Middle School in the South Bronx by Teach for America. Unlike his Westchester upbringing, this community differed significantly. To connect with students beyond the classroom, Leventhal initiated after-school lacrosse sessions. Participants had to meet two conditions: consistent class attendance and maintaining grades. The students’ response inspired him to formalize the program.

“The kids began to embrace it,” Leventhal observed. “Lacrosse became a tool for guiding them on the right track.”

Bronx Lacrosse comprises coaches from top collegiate programs. They collaborate with schools, families, and organizations to support students year-round. This consistency builds strong relationships beyond the sports season. Leventhal insists, “It’s more than just lacrosse. We see students throughout the year.” The organization is an academic and mentorship initiative incorporating lacrosse as a motivational tool. Besides sports, it offers tutoring, mentorship, social-emotional skills, and support for high school and college applications.

Post-pandemic, chronic absenteeism became an issue in the South Bronx. Bronx Lacrosse prioritized ensuring student attendance. “Success starts with school attendance,” said Leventhal. Staff even personally escorted students to school, achieving significant results. Academically, focus areas include algebra readiness and basic math skills. Beyond academics, students learn valuable life skills like leadership and accountability.

Originally a boys’ program, Bronx Lacrosse expanded to include girls’ lacrosse, showcasing significant skills improvement. This inclusion signifies that South Bronx youths are as deserving of field time as any others. Leventhal notes success on the field boosts students’ confidence in other life areas.

Lacrosse, one of America’s oldest sports, originated with indigenous Americans in the 1600s yet remains largely inaccessible. Predominantly found in upper-middle-class, white districts in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, city children face barriers like equipment costs and field availability. Leventhal stated, “We often resort to blacktop or basketball courts for play. Nevertheless, we maximize resources to help kids excel in lacrosse.” Providing equipment through partnerships and donations, Bronx Lacrosse levels the playing field.

“Our kids possess talent; they merely need opportunities,” emphasized Leventhal. “With our program, we’re altering traditional demographic norms in lacrosse.” Beyond attendance and test scores, personal narratives reflect the program’s profound impact.

Jordany, a high school senior, immigrated from the Dominican Republic at six, barely speaking English. Upon joining Bronx Lacrosse in middle school, he found community motivation. As Jordany improved academically, his aptitude in lacrosse soared. Today, he ranks among the nation’s top high school players, heading to Delaware on a full lacrosse scholarship. Leventhal shared Jordany’s journey as emblematic of the program’s purpose.

Leventhal emphasized, “We aim to meet kids where they are, guiding them toward college or other life success pathways.”