Rob English

As a recreational rower and US Rowing Referee, I am passionate about the inclusion and development of the sport of rowing. We don't have TBI in rowing. We don't have broken bones from contact in rowing, however, for those who have done it, they know that it is incredibly demanding physically and it is not easy. This film is beyond fantastic in the way it communicates the true plight of growing up an inner city male in Chicago (and most other cities) and how difficult their lives truly are. Even if they want to apply themselves to schoolwork and find a pathway out of the environment, it is all but impossible as gang and peer pressure is so overpowering that it is the only available option. "You want to succeed here? Join the gang" was all that was available. This film is all about how one man's commitment to change that and his unwavering support did change the lives of the eight kids that he was able to recruit. I do not want to talk about the specifics of the film, but I strongly recommend this film to every person in America to let you all understand what its really like growing up as a male in the inner city. In Chicago, one out of three males will not reach their 20th birthday. Think about that and how you and I and everyone else will help to end this cycle.