This summer, Strive had the privilege of working with a remarkable group of student-athletes through our partnership with Harlem Lacrosse Philadelphia. Among them was Aaron, a rising high school freshman whose story captures the heart of what Strive is all about: building confident leaders through connection, challenge, and joy.
We sat down with Aaron during one of our final workshops to hear his reflections. What we got was a glimpse into the mindset of a young athlete who’s not just chasing goals on the field, but growing into a leader off it.
🥍A Love for the Game and the Team
Aaron started playing lacrosse four years ago, and it’s clear the sport has become more than a pastime. “I just enjoy lacrosse,” he told us. “It’s a physical sport. I get to connect with a lot of different people, and it just brings me opportunity.”
That word opportunity echoes throughout Aaron’s story. Whether it’s the chance to bond with teammates in the summer heat or to earn a scholarship through sports, Aaron sees lacrosse as a gateway to something bigger.
🔴The Red Shirt Moment
When asked about his favorite memory from his summer with Strive, Aaron didn’t hesitate: “Definitely when I won the red shirt.”
The red shirt is a coveted symbol in our workshops, awarded to students who exemplify Strive’s character-driven leadership skills and values. “Y’all brought up that not a lot of people get it,” he said. So he made it a goal to take in what he learned each session and put it into action.
That drive to learn and grow is exactly what Strive nurtures in every student we work with.
💡Lessons in Leadership
Over five sessions, Aaron absorbed what Strive teaches through drills and exercises. He learned how to consider others, take accountability, and lead with empathy. “Leadership is like taking accountability, not blaming everybody else,” he said.
When asked which of Strive’s core values resonated most, Aaron chose Choose Laughter and Fill Tanks. “Fill other people’s tanks,” he explained. “It’s not all about yourself. Make other people feel good. And laugh it off. Nothing’s ever that serious.”
🎯Eyes on the Future
As Aaron enters high school, his goals are to earn a college scholarship through sports, explore basketball and lacrosse, and maybe even pursue jewelry design. It’s that ambition and growth mindset that makes Aaron and our students leaders in the making.
Join Us at Strive Slam 2025
Aaron’s story is one of many. Throughout the year, Strive helps young people discover their voice, build their confidence, and step into leadership.
Strive Slam is our annual celebration of leadership, athleticism, and community impact. Come meet our community, hear success stories, and support Strive.
Whether you’re a longtime donor or new to our mission, we’d love for you to join us and help continue building the leaders of tomorrow!
Let’s make this year’s Slam unforgettable!