In the South Bronx, where the usual sounds are those of basketball or baseball, the community now hears lacrosse balls hitting goals. This change comes from Bronx Lacrosse, founded by Dan Leventhal. He sees the local turf fields as crucial for the sport’s future.

Leventhal, a former college lacrosse player and Teach for America corps member, created Bronx Lacrosse to support youth beyond sports. As a free, year-round academic and mentorship program, Bronx Lacrosse motivates middle and high schoolers. “Lacrosse taught me invaluable lessons: teamwork, responsibility, leadership, prioritizing others,” Leventhal shared with Newsweek. Playing the sport took him to Tufts University and opened opportunities. Winning a Division III national championship in 2014, Teach for America led him to Highbridge Green Middle School in the South Bronx, a stark contrast from Westchester, where he grew up.

Leventhal’s desire to connect with students led him to play lacrosse after school. The only requirements were timely class attendance and maintaining grades. Students obliged, inspiring Leventhal to formalize Bronx Lacrosse. “I saw kids buying into it,” he stated. “Lacrosse became a vehicle to keep kids on track and reaching potential.”

“It’s more than just a typical sports program.”

Bronx Lacrosse staff includes players and coaches from top collegiate programs. They work with students, schools, families, and community organizations year-round. Their consistent presence builds strong relationships. “We’re with kids all year, not just during the season,” said Leventhal. He sees the organization as an academic and mentorship program, using lacrosse as an engaging tool.

Amid pandemic challenges like chronic absenteeism, Bronx Lacrosse doubled its mission to ensure school attendance. “Success starts with kids being in school,” emphasized Leventhal. The staff sometimes knocks on doors to get students to school. Results are evident. Academically, the program emphasizes algebra readiness and math skills. Students also learn leadership, accountability, and teamwork.

Initially a boys’ program, Bronx Lacrosse expanded to girls’ lacrosse, a distinct game, two years later. Skill levels have risen, showcasing the South Bronx kids’ rightful place on these fields. Success on the field boosts confidence in other life areas, Leventhal noted.

Lacrosse, with roots from indigenous Americans in the 1600s, often appears in upper-middle-class, white school districts. Barriers to urban kids playing include equipment cost and field access. “We often use blacktops or basketball courts,” said Leventhal. Despite limits, these kids reach potential, with all equipment free through partnerships and donations. “Our kids need the opportunity. They have talent. We’re excited about changing the game, especially with all our kids being black and brown,” he said.

Beyond attendance and scores, personal stories show the program’s impact. Jordany, from the Dominican Republic, joined Bronx Lacrosse in middle school. Initially struggling, the program gave him community and motivation. He became one of the top high school players and earned a Delaware lacrosse scholarship. Leventhal concluded, “We aim to meet kids where they are, guiding them to life success through opportunities.”