Helmets High School Initiative

Our Helmets* High School Initiative aims to establish and expand boys lacrosse programming at six high schools in Oakland by Spring 2029. It includes a holistic program that combines free access to lacrosse with leadership development, mentoring, college counseling, and mental health support. By removing financial barriers and providing consistent guidance on and off the field, the program helps young men from Oakland build confidence, resilience, and leadership skills. Each participant gains access to caring mentors, culturally competent mental health resources, college and career counseling, and a safe, structured environment to grow. Together, with your support, we can create a stronger network of support and opportunity for young men across Oakland.

*The term “helmets" refers to the equipment worn while playing boys lacrosse and “goggles” refers to the equipment worn while playing girls lacrosse. This terminology is our way to build inclusivity and to be mindful of any cis, trans, non-binary, genderqueer or gender nonconforming youth.

Impact & Growth

 
 

Current impact

In Spring 2025, we served 21 student-athletes across two schools and introduced lacrosse to 800 high school boys. We are launching our third school program in Spring 2026 at Skyline High School and hiring our first High School Helmets Coordinator.

Long term goal

By Spring 2029, we will expand to six schools with 150 boys playing on varsity teams, introduce lacrosse to 3,500 high school boys by Spring 2029, and have two High School Helmets Coordinators on staff.

 
 

GET INVOLVED

You can get involved in this expansion initiative in three ways:

  • 💸 GIVING: Support the next generation by becoming a donor — monthly or annual gifts make a huge difference

  • ⏰ TIME: Coach or speak at a clinic or alumni networking event.

  • 🤝 NETWORK: Introduce us to others who want to build community and opportunity through sport.

Get involved

Alumni Engagement 

Are you a Skyline alumni? Help us launch our pilot alumni program - join the Skyline Bench, a group of alumni that volunteer their time to supporting current players on the Skyline team. 

Interested? First, tell us how you want to get involved, and we’ll follow up with you. Below are some ways you can participate.

  • Be in community

    • Attend games as part of the Alumni Fan Section 

    • Attend alumni gatherings

    • Attend the Alumni Game & Tailgate 

  • Roll up your sleeves

    • Guest coach

    • Speak at practices and clinics

    • Network with current players and other alumni on the field and at networking events

    • Host career days

    • Offer internship and/or employment opportunities

Oakland Lacrosse