More Than A Game: The Power of Our Youth Sports Community
By Dominique “Dom” Curry
At the Philadelphia Youth Sports Collaborative (PYSC), we frequently emphasize that youth sports are more than just a game. It is a movement. A community. A lifeline. And at the core of this movement are our members—more than 100 organizations from across the city that work every day to support Philadelphia's youngsters.
As Director of Member Engagement, I have the unique opportunity to see the power of our network firsthand. From tennis fields to basketball gyms, baseball diamonds to squash courts, PYSC members are establishing safe spaces for young people to study, grow, and thrive.
Every organization in our network offers something unique: mentorship, structure, opportunity, and love. Whether it's a coach who devotes additional time to mentoring after practice or a volunteer who ensures a youngster gets transportation to their first game, these ordinary events change lives and shape futures.
This spring, at our PYSC Networking Night at SPIN, I saw members reconnect, collaborate, and celebrate work that is frequently done discreetly behind the scenes. These moments of connection remind us that we are stronger together, and that our combined impact goes well beyond the scoreboard.
Thank you to every member of the PYSC. Thank you for your perseverance, inventiveness, and everlasting confidence in the potential of sports to foster community. Thank you for being mentors, champions, and change-makers. Your job benefits not only the children you serve, but the entire community.
As we look ahead, PYSC remains committed to raising your voices, enhancing your work, and standing beside you as we advocate for justice and opportunity for all young people in Philadelphia.
We invest in youth because we believe it will benefit the future.
