Joseph Marvin: Assistant Sports Information Director
BREVARD, N.C. – Tornados' two-sport sophomore Evan Francois will be featured in ESPN Films' documentary "Crossroads". The film chronicles the inspiring journey of an upstart lacrosse program at Charlotte Secondary School, which became North Carolina state finalists in three years as a program. "Crossroads" is directed by multiple Emmy Award-winning producer Ron Yassen, and executive produced by former Wake Forest standout and current Houston Rockets star point guard Chris Paul.
The film takes a look inside the Charlotte Secondary team which transformed into a state-wide success story in a short period of time. Athletic Director Teddy Walker and Coach Bobby Selkin were able to develop a mission to "use lacrosse to get students out of their shells and into college" to change the perception of the sport in the minds of the students.
"'Crossroads' follows a group of at-risk African American teenagers who fight through the pain and adversity of childhood trauma to find salvation through sports," said director Ron Yassen. "This film spoke to me on a personal level, having been separated from my father as a young boy. Seeing our characters form a bond with a coach and an athletic director who help transform their lives shows that anything is possible with teamwork, drive, and perseverance."
"'Crossroads' is a very moving and inspiring documentary that explores the importance of teamwork and perseverance in the face of insurmountable odds," added North Carolina native Chris Paul. "It captures the impactful relationships formed between teammates and the role models who believe in them. This incredible true story from my home state of North Carolina conveys the transformative and connective power of sports."
Brevard's two-sport athlete Evan Francois was a member of the Charlotte Secondary School team during his high school tenure. Alongside the lacrosse program, Francois played wide receiver and helped the football team secure two conference titles. Francois lacrosse career was highlighted by conference championships in 2016 and 2017. Charlotte Secondary finished 8-4 under lacrosse head coach Bobby Selkin in 2016 before a 10-2 mark in 2017.
"Crossroads" premiered at the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival in Manhattan, NY. The documentary will debut Thursday, August 23rd at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN. You can catch the film starting August 24th on ESPN+, the newest subscription service offered by the ESPN family of networks.
*All quotes courtesy of ESPN Films*
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