Sports have the power to bring people together like few other things can. On fields and courts across Cambridge, young people learn teamwork, build confidence, and form friendships that cross neighborhood and economic lines. But too often, financial barriers keep kids on the sidelines.
That’s why we’re excited to announce that applications for Cambridge WINS sports equity sponsorships are now open through June 15. These sponsorships, ranging from $500 to $1,000, recognize and celebrate organizations that are strengthening belonging and social cohesion in Cambridge through youth sports summer programming.
Supporting access for all
“Sports were a big part of how many of us grew up. They gave us structure, community, and a place to learn how to work with others,” says Matt Meyersohn, co-chair of the Cambridge WINS community advisory committee. “This program is about making sure every kid in Cambridge can access those same opportunities, no matter their circumstances.”
CCF co-founded Cambridge WINS with Cambridge natives and sports enthusiasts Matt Meyersohn and Joe Bradlee in spring 2022. Since then, CCF has awarded a total of $40,000 to 33 nonprofits and coaches providing equitable access to summer sports for Cambridge youth who face barriers to participation due to financial or family constraints.
This year’s program received generous support from Buckingham Browne & Nichols School (BB&N) through a $5,000 contribution. This funding came to Cambridge WINS through co-founder Joe Bradlee who won a pitch competition for BB&N alumni this spring demonstrating how community connections can translate into opportunities for Cambridge youth.
A community effort
In 2025, WINS sponsorship decisions will be made by a new 11-person volunteer advisory committee that includes long-time coaches, Cambridge recreation staff, and civic leaders committed to supporting sports opportunities for Cambridge youth.
“Every person on this committee brings a deep love for Cambridge and a belief in what sports can do,” says Matt. “We’re humbled by their commitment — they’re not just showing up, they’re showing up for kids who need it most.”
Members include: Matt Meyersohn, WINS co-founder, committee co-chair, executive director, Cambridge Basketball Lab and Boys basketball assistant coach at CRLS; Joe Bradlee, WINS co-founder and assistant athletic director at Harvard University; Ty Bellitti, Co-Founder/Co-President, MBK Cambridge and CCF board member; David Kale, former finance leader with City of Cambridge and Cambridge Public Schools, North Cambridge little league baseball coach; Anthony Galluccio, former Cambridge mayor and youth baseball coach; Geo Rodriguez, Cambridge recreation activities coordinator and CRLS boys basketball head coach; Maggie Pimlott, Cambridge recreation staff and flag football youth coach and basketball coach; Kathleen Skelton, MIT women’s basketball coach; Oderra Jones, CRLS assistant athletic director; Adam Corbeil, director of recreation at the City of Cambridge; Nick Ross, emergency physician at Salem Hospital and Cambridge Public Schools parent; Phil Johnson, CCF board chair.
We’re deeply grateful to our volunteer advisory committee members for donating their time and expertise to support this vital work of ensuring all Cambridge youth have access to sports opportunities.
Sports as the great equalizer
At CCF, we believe sports are “the great equalizer” — they are spaces where young people can come together regardless of background and build the connections that strengthen our community’s social fabric.
“As the foundation of and for all of Cambridge, we’re always thinking about how to bridge divides and spark connection,” says Phil Johnson, chair of CCF’s board. “Sports are one of the few places where those walls come down, where kids from every background can play, grow, and belong. We’re so grateful to Joe, Matt, and the entire WINS team for making that possible.”
Cambridge WINS represents CCF’s ongoing commitment to access, sports enrichment and driving equity and opportunity for youth across our city.
Apply now
Organizations and coaches interested in Cambridge WINS sponsorships can learn more here. Groups will be notified of sponsorship decisions by mid-to-late-June.
For more information on Cambridge WINS sponsorships, contact Lauren Marshall at [email protected].
