Yankee Stadium hosts championship games for youth program

CONCOURSE, the Bronx (PIX11) — Yankee Stadium hosted championship games Wednesday to cap off the annual Summer Night Lights program to keep youth across the city engaged and safe.

The event marked the end of the free summer initiative.

More than 400 young people participated in the second annual installment of the program. The championship game was extra special as the young athletes got to play at Yankee Stadium for the first time.

Angel Castillo was on the winning team in one of the games.

“I wanted to stay busy during the summer,” Castillo said. “Find something to do while I’m not at home.”

The program, which is normally held at Elston Gene Howard Field across from Yankee Stadium, has become a staple in the Bronx. It offers kids ages 12-18 a chance to play baseball and softball twice a week.

As the program ended, the championship game was a chance for the young athletes to play where their baseball heroes have made history.

It was a moment that inspired pride and a sense of accomplishment.

“Definitely a childhood dream,” said Castillo. “I’ve definitely wanted to play here since I was a little kid, and now, I’m here.”

Summer Night Lights began as a response to the need for safe, constructive activities for kids during the summer, especially in neighborhoods where resources are limited.

“Cut down on that idle time and give them something positive to do,” Jeremy Syrop of the city’s Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) said. “Also, we want to support their peer bonding and their development as young people. Give them an opportunity to develop and grow their skills and make some new friends.”

The program’s impact goes far beyond the game. It provides a sense of belonging and helps participants develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

“It just gives them a responsibility,” said Mark Stewart of the NYPD. “That determination, commitment leads to their goals and strengthens the relationship between the kids and the police department.”

The DYCD partnered with the NYPD to bring this program to life. Organizers hope to make next year’s program bigger and better.

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