By HWM
Harlem’s basketball organization, the Riverside Hawks, has long used the game of basketball as a gateway to academic and personal growth for young people. What starts on the court evolves in the classroom, where discipline, accountability, and confidence take root. From elementary school through middle school, the organization intentionally pairs skill development with mentorship, academic monitoring, and guidance toward high school and college readiness.
Now, the Riverside Hawks are taking this approach a step further with Lady Hawks In Training (LHIT), a program designed specifically to expand access and opportunity for girls across Harlem, Washington Heights, and the Bronx.
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Through LHIT, basketball becomes more than a sport — it’s a structured pathway for young women to build confidence, leadership, discipline, and academic responsibility. In partnership with the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), Riverside Hawks provides programming that removes barriers and increases access to high-quality athletic and enrichment opportunities in under-resourced communities.
The program goes beyond basic skill development. Girls participating in LHIT receive fundamental basketball instruction, engage in controlled scrimmages, and are exposed to real-game concepts such as spacing, movement, and defensive discipline. The structure of the program encourages competition, communication, and leadership, while emphasizing that academic achievement is integral to success on and off the court.
Mentorship and character development are central to LHIT, providing participants with the support and guidance needed to navigate challenges and make informed decisions. The program fosters a safe and empowering environment, helping girls to understand that high expectations, paired with strong support systems, can fuel their growth and achievement.
“The goal is to give girls the tools and confidence to rise,” said a Riverside Hawks representative. “Through basketball, mentorship, and academic support, we’re helping young women see what they’re capable of — on the court, in school, and in life.”
Photo by Markus Spiske
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