Jaquan James offers his Passion, Hard work, and Dedication to Protect the Youth.

September 4, 2022

Jaquan James hosted the second annual PHD Protect the Youth event at Crompton Park in Worcester, MA on August 20, 2022. We sat down with Jaquan to discuss the event highlighting Worcester's rising stars.

Q: This is the second year you’ve hosted the “Protect The Youth” event in Worcester - can you tell us what motivated you to host this event and why Worcester?

I’ve always had this urge and will to give back to those in need and can use the extra hand. What kind of person would I be to want to help the world and not start right within my own community?

I could have gone to Boston where there’s a lot more going and things seem to be more popular, but I wanted to take on a challenge of starting something new as well as shining some light on the more shadowed city areas. This gives the kids who can’t make distant commutes to Boston a chance [to play], and kids who can't afford don't have to worry about a penny.

Amir Jenkins, a Protect The Youth standout lines up for a free throw.

Q: Your event stands out from others because you were able to provide a top-tier tournament with jerseys, haircuts, and trophies, and more all for free! Can you tell us how you were able to make this happen?

The motto itself — Passion, Hard work and Dedication. I really enjoy playing a part in the youth’s transformation as they grow into young adults and get ready for that next stage in their lives. The person who contributed the most was my mother, Tyechia James, a healthcare professional in Worcester. Recently, we have received status as a non-profit organization in MA, so we’ll be looking forward to donations and future sponsors. This will keep us from having to come out of pocket 100%.

Teshaun Steele and Josiah Reyes battle for a rebound.

Q: What does PHD stand for?

PASSION - Establishing your love for what it is you are doing.

HARD WORK - Putting in that effort, even when you can’t see the reward yet.

DEDICATION - Understanding how much you want to obtain that goal you are working toward.

Top scorer in Worcester, Tahlan Pettway.

Q: How would you compare the first event in 2021 compared to 2022?

2021 was my first year putting things in motion so I didn’t have any expectations. I went into it with an open mind. I wanted to see how things would play out first, that way I know what to improve on. Overall, things turned out well. We had enough participants & everyone enjoyed themselves.

2022 was a much better turnout. There was obvious improvement in the numbers alone and the event itself had more to offer. I went to the Summer Jam Classic a week prior, which helped me establish more relationships with people around the city which in return got the word out and got more people involved with Protect The Youth, and for that I’ll always be thankful.

Jamel Walker of Team New England.

Q: This year you had many accessories such as bouncy houses, food vendors, videographers and photographers, etc - Any changes you would like to put in place for 2023?

Definitely, I’m looking to get the high school girls more involved as well as elementary/middle school ages.

Eddie Matusie poses with Coach Bruce Marchand.

Q: If any vendors want to be a part of future events what’s the best way to contact you?

Email - phdmanagement@gmail.com

Social Media: IG: @phd_management FB: phd management Website: Under construction

Kalu Anya - Brown University commit.

Q: Any advice for other community members looking to give back to the community?

Go for it. Take the leap. You gain a unique sense of purpose by serving those around you. Spending time enriching your community is a great way to broaden your perspective of the world. A quote I will always live by is “Leave this world a little better than how you found it”

PHD founder, Jaquan James.