Providence, RI
When varsity sports were cut from Providence middle schools, most took it as a sign of underperformance and budget inequities. Billy Watterson, a wrestling captain at Brown University, saw it as an opportunity. Watterson put his studies on hold for a year to found Beat the Streets Providence, a nonprofit organization whose goal is to use wrestling to inspire at-risk youth and provide them with the support they need to succeed. Their vision begins by bringing school sports back to Providence schools, and using them as a vehicle for improving educational success.
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Two years later, Beat the Streets is making leaps and bounds. The organization has brought wrestling to five Providence schools and plans to double their program in the fall. In addition to wrestling, Beat the Streets combines mentoring, attendance incentives, and tutoring in targeting their numerous goals. Among these are improvements in health, behavior, attendance, and academic performance of their students.
Last week, Watterson announced the hire of Ed German, the new program coordinator. Born and bred in Providence, wrestling helped Ed chart his course towards success as a struggling youth. Ed is a graduate of Rhode Island College’s wrestling program and a Rhode Island Coach of the Year. Off of the mat, German is also an educator and teaching trainer for the school department. “This is a really exciting time for us,” said Billy Watterson. “Bringing on Ed will enable us to serve more people and do more good.”
Now with veteran experience at the helm, Beat the Streets has accrued stellar coaching talent for their summer programs. On top of a program in the Providence parks and a STEM wrestling camp (in partnership with the Providence After School Alliance), BTS will offer twice weekly clinics that are free for any Rhode Island resident. Coaches for the month of July include big-name NCAA talent. Clinics will be run by 2014 NCAA finalist Brian Realbuto (Cornell), 2013 All American Silas Murray (RIC), Brown University head coach Todd Beckerman, and many others. “I’m excited that this is happening for our Providence youth,” says Ed German. “They will be receiving more than what was available to me and my peers. I hope they take full advantage of this great opportunity.”
Clinics are open to the public, and run Tuesday/Thursday from 5:30-7. Location is UCAP middle school, 76 Carpenter St, Providence RI.
For more info, check out beatthestreets-pvd.org or email beatthestreetspvd@gmail.com
