NXTsports Demonstrates Winning Ways in Sports…and Community

They came from as far away as Colorado and Canada, as well as from throughout the tri-state area,  hundreds of boys from 8 to 15 years old, to compete in the NXT Cup lacrosse tournament – described as “the most competitive youth event in the country.”

The competition is one of a number of events being held this summer at venues throughout the United States by local sports education and event management company NXTsports.

Based in Bala Cynwyd, the firm is committed to the education, development, and performance of young athletes, but also, noted Andy Hayes, co-founder of NXTsports and its president and CEO,  “we endeavor to have a major impact – beyond sports – on the community where we are running our events.”

So it was no surprise that NXTsports, which earlier this year held special clothing drives on behalf of Cradles to Crayons at each of its Cradle lacrosse locations, used the NXT Cup lacrosse competition to further support the local nonprofit.

Despite the name, there is no connection between Cradle Lacrosse and Cradles to Crayons; rather, Cradle Lacrosse is a NXTsports program designed as an introduction to lacrosse targeted for players aged 4-8 years old.

Dunk tank events were held at the NXT Cup’s Westtown School site in West Chester. The funds raised from the always-popular dunk tank were presented to Cradles to Crayons…and quickly converted to boys’ shorts, socks and underwear, “always most-needed items,” Cradles to Crayons Executive Director Michal Smith happily noted.