Denver Manning, 10, plays football with the New York City Lions.

“This program is basically like life to me,” Manning said. “It’s basically brotherhood.”

What You Need To Know

NYC Lions Youth Football League for high-risk youth serves approximately 180 athletes from ages 7 to 17

Coach Tim Cavanaugh says the team used to practice at the East River Park fields, but that came to an end in May because of construction

When his practice field closed, he says the Parks Department did not find him a new place to practice and claims the Parks Department prioritized adult programs over his players

"While we prioritize youth groups, we also strive to ensure an equitable distribution of permits across all users and activities,” the Parks Department said in a statement.

This youth football leagu

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