A special feature in today's issue of “SI” takes an intimate look at the intersect of school sports and gang activity in South L.A. But the piece is no sob story. It profiles a gifted high school athlete who dodges linebackers on the field and gangbangers on the street.
Kitam Hamm, Jr. is in his final year at Compton High. He plays offense and defense – versatility is essential in a struggling football program. Fortunately, his teammates extend beyond the field. Kitam has been able to excel thanks to a solid family that learned about gang life the hard way.
Now, the young man has his sights on Stanford or USC. College football recruiters from the top schools have sent him letters of interest: Harvard, UCLA, Princeton, Columbia and more.
To get this far, Kitam had to be sheltered from a city that is currently home to 34 active street gangs with more than 1,000 members. Other young players like him have not been as lucky. The SI story recalls the senseless murder of Dannie Farber.
In 2009, the Narbonne High football player who helped lead the team to a city championship was gunned down at a fast food joint. Farber had never even participated in any gang activities. Then there are other young athletes who don't get beyond high school sports because of poor academics, then get sucked into drugs and violence.
WEIGH IN:
Why has it been so different for Kitam, Jr.? What is life like at Compton High? How serious are the issues of violence and drugs for students there? Has Kitam or his family been targeted because of their success? Will Kitam make it to the Ivy League?
Guests:
Jeff Benedict, Special Features Contributor, "Sports Illustrated" – wrote “Straight Outta Compton” in the latest issue out today; Distinguished Professor of English at Southern Virginia University
Kitam Hamm, Jr., Senior student, Compton High School & Defensive Back, Compton High School Football Team, the Tarbabes