About Us
A recreation center contributes to a person’s physical, social, emotional, intellectual development. Systematic evaluation showed that youth clubs and recreation centers make important contributions, including cultural enrichment, development of conflict resolution skills, developing leadership skills, resisting negative/ antisocial behaviors and developing citizenship.
Our mission is to provide services and programs that enhance the physical, educational and cultural needs of our children in our community at-large. The aim of the Fort Greene Sports program, since its inception in 2003, is the development of youth through activities contributing to growth and positive achievements.
A Story About Bob
By JOE STEPANSKY | The Local
Bob Byer — Teaching Life Lessons on the Hardwood
Robert Byer runs a youth sports program in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill — but the lessons he teaches go far beyond the court.
Even after his own children outgrew the program, Mr. Byer kept at it. “As a black male working with young black males,” he said, “I have a unique place to act as a role model; to say, ‘Look at me, I went to college. With hard work you can, too.’”
Mr. Byer attended Adelphi University and St. John’s University, but even before that, he coached his brother in the Co-op City Little League, where he realized the potential to change young people’s lives through sports.
So when you see him walking the court at the Brooklyn Career Development Center, it’s no surprise to see some tough love.
“Where were you on Thursday? You know we had practice,” he said to a young man.
Mr. Byer certainly welcomes all players — whether they can afford the $50 a month fee — but he is not welcoming to athletes who won’t take it seriously.
“If you don’t want to be here you don’t have to be here,” Mr. Byer said to two 14-year-olds who were messing up. “But if you are going to be here, you need to take it serious.”