Black History Month Grantee Spotlight

February 9, 2024

Squashing Stereotypes on Chicago’s South Side

On Chicago’s South Side, MetroSquash is challenging assumptions about who excels on the court…and in the city. Since its establishment in 2005, Metrosquash has been breaking Illinois’ racial, cultural and class barriers by improving mental and physical wellbeing among Black and Brown youth.

Squash is stereotypically a sport of social privilege, but Metrosquash is using the game to serve up positive social change for under-resourced youth. With Barack and Michelle Obama among its famed residents, the South Side of Chicago is rich in Black history. MetroSquash adds to the historic community connections, providing positive role models and inspiration for their 97% BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) participants thanks to a diverse coaching staff, many of whom are program alumni. “Representation matters, always,” asserts CEO Janae Meyer. “Our staff elevate the voices of the community each and every day, lifting up the work of so many Black and Brown leaders through history. I am excited to discover all of the beautiful ways that shows up this month.”

TEAM APPROACH

Blending their physical, academic, emotional and professional focus areas, MetroSquash offers a holistic development approach. With an understanding of the learning gaps, systemic trauma and financial stressors affecting their participants’ lives, the organization employs a trauma-informed approach to everything they do. During the height of COVID-19, for instance, MetroSquash dispensed essential food and school supplies to their participants, as well as helping facilitate important communications. “They didn’t just support me; they supported my entire family,” attests Yanelise, a High School junior. “It made an enormous difference when we needed it most.”

Under MetroSquash’s four-pillar program, Yanelise’s grades have jumped as high as her fitness. Academic mentors helped guide her to apply to a prestigious private school, which she subsequently got into – an intervention she describes as pivotal. “I can confidently say that without MetroSquash, I wouldn’t be part of such an incredible institution.” She’s not alone. With over 80 top colleges sporting men’s and women’s teams, walking onto the court can open up the door to big future opportunities.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL COACHING

For Heaven, who has been with the program since seventh grade and now coaches the younger students, Metrosquash is her “second home.” Heaven loves squash, but the lessons she’s learning are bearing dividends off the court too. “I remember Coach Gabe telling me I wasn’t giving it my all; I needed to play to my full potential. That was the first time that I was told to be more assertive. Since then, that attitude has served me well in all aspects of life. I’m seeing my future opportunities grow right before my eyes.”

Played in over 175 countries, squash is a truly global sport. Through competitions, MetroSquash students not only hone their athletic skills but also broaden their horizons. Traveling to different cities exposes them to diverse cultures, historic sites and college campuses, igniting their enthusiasm for future education and career possibilities. For many, program-related travel is their first time leaving their city, let alone on a plane. “It’s the best feeling in the world,” enthuses Meyer. “You just know that there are many more firsts to come, and that they will crush it - no matter what they do.”

Named as the world’s healthiest sport by Forbes Magazine in 2023, squash packs a powerful all-round workout, promoting cardiovascular fitness, flexibility and alertness in short-burst activity. While the physical benefits for MetroSquash youth are great, it’s their growth in character, community pride and hope that’s truly transformational. Lessons of goal-setting, hard work and discipline learned on the squash court become lifelong principles. “Squash is an individual sport,” says Meyer. “Yet, our students learn to care for one another.”

By breaking down barriers, fostering mental and physical well-being, and providing a supportive community, MetroSquash is creating a legacy that extends far beyond the squash court. In the face of adversity, this organization is shaping resilient, empowered individuals who will undoubtedly leave their mark on the world.

Beyond Sport is proud to help support MetroSquash's youth development initiatives as part of our Head In the Game program powered by the Z Zurich Foundation. Visit Head In The Game's Resource Hub to access diverse mental wellbeing resources for teens.