Sports and Academics: A Potent Recipe for Success
When the time comes to apply for a spot in the CitySquash program, the response is often overwhelming. Because the word is out: CitySquash programs are not only fun, they're a way to gain the skills needed to advance in life.
CitySquash is an after-school enrichment program based at Fordham University that provides economically disadvantaged young people with academic tutoring and training in a sport that demands both team play and individual excellence. Its goals are to build self-esteem, improve physical health, develop sportsmanship, provide positive role models, and teach life lessons like responsibility, honesty and accountability.
The Tools and Discipline to Excel
CitySquash is selective: participants must be recommended by a teacher and demonstrate such qualities as attitude, work ethic, athletic ability, and academic aptitude. Each is required to make at least a three-year, three day-a-week commitment and follow a rigorous program that includes squash, education, mentoring and community service. Weekday practice consists of an hour of squash and an hour of academic tutoring.
Students are able to expand their horizons by traveling to competitions, prep schools and universities. A high premium is placed on hard work and the pursuit of excellence. Through their participation in CitySquash, disadvantaged young people dramatically increase their academic averages, and often win both individual and team titles at national-level competitions. Several have been accepted at exclusive private high schools with full financial aid.
These young people, once limited by extraordinary obstacles, gain a sense of hope, purpose and empowerment that helps them become winners in all aspects of their lives.
"Â…And when we found out that Tanesha got into the Hill School, with full financial aid. I almost passed out. I couldn't stop calling people and telling them the good news. I thank CitySquash for plucking my child out of the inner-city and giving her this magnificent chance in life."
-Maria Vasquez, mother of Tanesha Jackson
http://www.citysquash.org/
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