Building Skills for the Field and Life with T.A.G.

This fall, 45 returning athletes participated in Oakland Lacrosse’s T.A.G. Program, our 10-week, 1:1 mentorship initiative centered on Time-management, Advocacy, and Goal-setting. On the field, our players learn strength, resilience, and teamwork. Through T.A.G., they apply those same skills to school, work, and everyday life. 

T.A.G. mentors support youth as they:

• Manage their time between practices, schoolwork, and family responsibilities

• Advocate for themselves in the classroom, at after-school jobs, and in their communities

• Set meaningful goals—and stay accountable as they work toward them

High School Coordinator and TAG mentor Amanda says what makes the program special is its holistic approach:

“I love TAG because it addresses the whole person. We work on wellness goals, academic goals, lacrosse/physical fitness goals, and leadership goals. TAG focuses on helping each student be the best that they can be in all areas of life.”

Amanda has seen firsthand how powerful this support can be. She recalled working with a 10th grader student athlete* from Oakland High School, who was navigating conflict with a friend.

“We talked through the conflict, and I encouraged her to have a simple conversation with her friend. She took the advice and initiated the conversation. The issue was resolved, and their friendship grew stronger. I was super proud of her for being courageous and working on improving her communication skills even when it’s uncomfortable.”

Stories like this are reflected across the program: students leave TAG more self-aware, confident, and grounded in their passions. As Amanda put it: “Every individual is unique and has a beautiful story. You can’t mentor the same way with each mentee—you have to truly learn who they are.”

This year’s data from participant surveys underscores TAG’s impact.

91.7% of participants strongly agree they could open up to their mentor, and 91.6% agree or strongly agree that their hard work helped them make progress toward their goals.

But behind those numbers are the relationships that make TAG meaningful.

One junior from Skyline High School shared her appreciation for her mentor Erica:

“She helped me understand a better side of myself. She encouraged me through some very tough times, and I like how she is so understanding and caring with everything she says and does.”

Another student athlete at Brewer Middle School, celebrated mentor Hayden:

“I appreciate how Hayden always makes sure we manage our time and makes sure we are okay. I like how he is honest, respectful, and shows that he cares for us.”

For High School Coordinator and mentor Erica, those relationships are the foundation of the program. She reflected on mentoring a Skyline High School student:

“She has grown so much—maturing, taking initiative, playing multiple sports, serving as a lacrosse ambassador, recruiting new players, and joining the Jamboree Council. With all these responsibilities, she recently became overwhelmed and accidentally slept through practice. She texted me afterward feeling stressed, and I reminded her how important it is to prioritize herself and rest. She’s learning that sometimes being a leader also means stepping back and taking care of your own needs.”

For Erica, the trust that forms through 1:1 mentoring is a key differentiator from other OLC programs: “One-on-one support is the biggest difference I’ve noticed. Consistency goes a long way in helping our youth succeed.”

Both Amanda and Erica agree: mentoring doesn’t just change the students—it changes the adults, too. Amanda shared: “Helping youth achieve their dreams and goals is always rewarding.” Erica added: “Imagine if we all had the extra support we needed when we were younger. We get to help meet their needs now and make a lasting impact on their lives.”

Playing lacrosse builds a foundation for confidence, leadership, and opportunity. T.A.G. ensures every Oakland Lacrosse athlete builds the tools to thrive not just as players, but as students, leaders, and community members.

It’s more than mentorship. It's a commitment to helping young people grow into the strongest, most authentic versions of themselves.

*Student names removed from this story to respect the mentor-mentee relationship.