ESPN Cleveland is launching an initiative to highlight the high school football players, coaches and teams participating in the #BeTheSolution campaign, launched by Cleveland Browns GM Andrew Berry. #BeTheSolution is the Browns’ commitment to making a difference in the community in issues of social justice.
The initiative aimed at high school teams is called Build the Bridge. It was started by coaches at two area high schools. The Browns and ESPN Cleveland are encouraging meaningful interactions between programs of different racial and/or socio-economic demographics.
Two schools are paired up through the initiative. They then plan an event focused on personal connections by conducting a collaborative discussion on social justice and race relations, competing with one another on the field or in the weight room and finally sharing a meal. Coaches and athletes are then encouraged to remain in regular contact throughout the year.
“Build the Bridge and what Coach Stephens, Coach Hicks and Coach Creel have created is a great example of how sports can be part of the solution,” ESPN Cleveland Market Manager and Vice President of Good Karma Brands Sam Pines said in a press release. “We are energized and honored to amplify the message from this great program.”
