York, a small city located in central Pennsylvania, has a history of racial tension and economic challenges. The residents of this city, in particular, the African American residents are faced with the challenges of finding opportunities to provide for their families amidst dwindling opportunities and increasing crime.
For some however, sports have provided a unique opportunity to leave the confines of the city, and to take advantages of opportunities that may not have been realized through any other means. While African American males are often stereotypically categorized as basketball players or football players; soccer is slowly growing a following amongst African American youth. William Thornton, a York native, is a living example of how this sport can present opportunities far beyond the city limits.
From A Small Town to the Global Pitch from Tieast Leverett on Vimeo.