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Community is an important piece of the human experience. Without a group or team to connect with, people can feel lost or alone. For Julian Targete, IMG Academy student-athlete and lacrosse midfielder, the joy of sport propelled him into community activism and outreach.
It all started at a multi-sport camp. “My first memory of me playing lacrosse was when I was five years old,” Julian says. “I had this big starter kit on and a big white helmet, and I looked like a bobblehead. But it was the most fun ever.”
As he continued to pursue his athletic goals, Julian took notice of the lack of lacrosse’s diversity. “It’s important to identify race within lacrosse because this sport isn’t diverse but it’s definitely on the way,” he says, and each step gets us closer and closer to being where we need to be.
Julian has also been working with Harlem Lacrosse from a very young age. “Whenever I had extra pads I’d always donate them to Harlem Lacrosse. It’s a great program. What they’re doing for the sport is truly amazing.”
While donating time is important to Julian, he also reposts content on social media to strengthen his community and inspire other black athletes. “I repost whenever something is going on that needs to be amplified or something great within the black community,” he says. “It’s the best way I can help.”
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As the sport evolves and grows, Julian looks forward to what’s next. “Diversity in the future of lacrosse is going to boom,” he says. “There’s so many players that are coming up who are going to make an immediate impact. I’m so excited to see where it goes.”
Watch the video to hear Julian’s story as well as to see what he visualizes for the future of his sport. To sign up for a lacrosse camp or another youth program, check out the links below.
