DP Youth Dragon Boat Team
Youth Dragon Boat Team
The Discovery Pathways Youth Dragon Boat Team began as a small, scrappy group of South Philadelphia students looking for a place to belong, move their bodies, and challenge themselves. In 2025, the team grew beyond anything we imagined. What started with borrowed gear and broken paddles became a nationally recognized youth team, with students racing across the country and even representing South Philly on the world stage.
In 2025, we won 3 Gold Medals, 2 Silver Medals, 1 Youth Cup, and.1 Bronze medal. 4 Students from DP made Team USA and raced in the World Championships in Germany. Most importantly, we got healthier, had fun, and found our inner power.
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More importantly, the dragon boat team became a powerful space for youth to build confidence, improve their health, and find their voice. Most of our paddlers had never played a sport before. Many had never exercised regularly or felt part of a team. Through early morning practices, tough workouts, shared meals, and countless moments of encouragement, students learned what they are capable of when barriers are removed and they are truly supported.
Our team is completely free. Youth are never excluded based on physical ability. We provide uniforms, equipment, transportation, food, and wraparound support so every student can fully participate.
In 2025, our youth showed heart, Philly grit, and resilience. They trained before sunrise, pushed through cold weather and setbacks, stayed positive in close losses, and celebrated each other’s wins. They built friendships, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the boat.
We need your support to the boat moving
Donations are needed to help pay for uniforms, race fees, healthy snacks, gloves, and crucial supplies for students. All students are low income so we provide everything free
Reach out to adam@discoverypathways.org with any questions
Want to become a Sponsors
Business sponsors are essential to our team. We will thank and promote your brand on uniforms, social media, and more
2025 Impact by the Numbers
- 67 students trained with the team
- 33 students completed a full competitive season
- 85% of participants were refugees or immigrants
- 100% of participants were low-income youth
- 4 students made Team USA and raced internationally in Germany
- 5 students traveled to California to try out for Team USA
- 4 Gold medals, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze, and 2 Youth Cups
- Missed a major Youth Cup in New York by just 1 second
- Added year-round workouts to build discipline, confidence, and health
- Distributed over 2,600 pounds of fresh produce and healthy snacks
- Provided free uniforms, paddles, gear, transportation, and access for all
- 22 families regularly attended practices, races, and celebrations
Teamwork, Hard Work, Have Fun
The Youth Dragon Boat Team is one part of Discovery Pathways’ broader mission to empower young people through health, leadership, and access to meaningful outdoor experiences. In 2025, this team showed what happens when young people are supported, challenged, and believed in. We are deeply proud of our youth and grateful to the community that made this life-changing season possible.
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One program that has grown quickly and brought a lot of visibility to our work is our South Philly Youth Dragon Boat Team, which grew directly out of AAPI community partnerships. In 2025:
- 67 students trained, with 33 committing to a full season. 4 students made Team USA and raced internationally. We won 3 gold medals, 2 silvers and 2 youth cups
- Nearly all participants are low-income AAPI immigrant youth, many new to sports
- The team has brought meaningful press and attention to Discovery Pathways, including coverage from the Philadelphia Inquirer, PBS, and Fox29, and our social media now reaches 283,000+ views in a slow month.
- 100% got into college, almost all with full scholarships with Discovery Pathways tutoring and support.
Family Health & Community Wellness
Our Dragon Boat Team goes beyond racing youth lead exercise, wellness, and movement for their families and community. Students organize workouts, family fitness days, and at-home challenges that make healthy living accessible and welcoming.
By the Numbers
- 48 family members participated regularly in youth-led exercise and health activities
- 22 families attended practices, celebrations, and health-focused team events
- 93 family members engaged through at-home workouts, stretching, walking, and movement challenges
- 1,287 hours of documented exercise completed by students and their families at home
- 100% of participating youth reported improved physical and mental health
- 95% of families reported healthier eating and more active routines at home
Beyond racing, the team has become an anchor for youth development. Families report healthier routines, stronger confidence, better school engagement, and a sense of belonging.
