Continuous improvement. This mantra is practiced by Kyle Lafferty, PYB’s new Program Operations Coordinator. Starting as a full-time employee in September 2017, Kyle Lafferty is new to the position, but is not a new member of the Philadelphia Youth Basketball family. Kyle first became involved with PYB starting as a summer 2016 corporate and camp based intern and then again the following year, as a senior level summer 2017 corporate based intern. Being a Philly native from the Olney area, Kyle was excited to see that PYB had open opportunities for civic engagement, as he was seeking an opportunity to express his passion for contributing to the well-being and potentials of the youth in Philadelphia.
Like many young people in the Philly area, Kyle began playing basketball just for fun with his friends and cousin; however, it was seeing the continuous improvement in his development and gameplay that really made him fall in love with the game. Kyle played competitive basketball from the 7th grade throughout college. Being apart of programs such as Philadelphia Central High School boys’ varsity basketball team, Hunting Park Warriors AAU program and Rosemont College men’s basketball team, he developed and gained a plethora of skills and knowledge that would help aid and serve Philadelphia’s up and coming boys and girls. During his time at Rosemont, he studied Sociology, was a 3-year co-captain, and received numerous academic honors.
As a college student-athlete, Kyle recognizes the Rosemont community that has helped shaped his identity. “It was the best four years of my life. I was at that stage where you kind of have an idea of who you are, but you’re still searching for yourself and everything was pretty much going my way. The athletic department really embraced me and highlighted my academics, being a good young man, and my practice of doing the right thing.”
Kyle’s connection to Philadelphia and to the game that transformed his life is a straight path to Philadelphia Youth Basketball. His passion to be a role model for those participating in PYB’s programs allows him to make direct change in young people’s lives.
“I continue to be apart of PYB because once I started to really engage with the kids, I started to really see the benefits that PYB offers. I can be an older person that one of these kids want to emulate or follow after…this can really change the lives of young people in Philadelphia.”
His first experience working with young people was at 14 years old as a volunteer mentor for cub scouts ages 7 through 10. Through this experience he helped with individual skill building and group building activities.
As PYB rolls into its third year of the Middle School Partnership Program (MSPP), Kyle will also be the head coach for one of the eight schools in the program. He is excited to be able to “run his own show,” as well as helping out on the administrative side in making sure the program runs smoothly.
“My ultimate goal upon joining the staff of Philadelphia Youth Basketball is to bring a positive and hardworking attitude to promote the Sports for Social Change Movement. As someone that has been in the position that many of today’s Philadelphia youth are in, my passion lies in creating an outlet where youth can grow and empower themselves while doing things that they love.”
PYB is excited to have Kyle on staff! His dedication to giving back to his community and his commitment to continuously improve in whatever it is he puts his mind to, exemplifies the core of PYB’s mission. #IamPYB
Fun Facts:
Favorite Movie: Fresh
Favorite Artist: Drake
Has a love for red sneakers
By Randy Butler, Fund Development and Program Coordinator