NEW YORK — A routine medical checkup for a rib injury in 2007 turned into a life-altering moment for Officer Investigator McRae, the NYC Department of Corrections said. Then a semi-pro linebacker on Long Island, he was diagnosed with stage 3 Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
After months of chemotherapy and recovery, he returned to the sport he loved — this time as a coach.
McRae joined the Elmont Cardinals, the same youth football club he played for as a child. What started as a way to stay connected to football turned into a long-term commitment to mentoring young athletes, eventually leading him to a career in corrections.
“My dad coached in the program for 25 years and served as the Football Director, so following in his footsteps has been very special,” McRae said.
It was through coaching that McRae was introduced to the NYC DOC. A fellow coach, who was also a correction officer, encouraged him to take the next correction officer exam, pointing out that the role also involved mentoring and guiding young people.
McRae took the test, joined New York City’s Boldest, and has now spent nearly 15 years in the department, using the same leadership skills he developed on the football field to reach those behind the walls.
Building connections through sports
As a corrections officer assigned to the Robert N. Davoren Center (RNDC), McRae worked with adolescent detainees. He found that sports provided a way to connect with them and open discussions about making better choices.
“When I worked at RNDC, I was able to use football to connect with the adolescents and I was able to talk to them about making better decisions,” McRae said.
That same passion for mentorship led him to take on greater leadership roles within the Elmont Cardinals. In 2015, he became the club’s Football Director, following in his father’s footsteps. Today, McRae balances his career in corrections with his commitment to youth sports, shaping the next generation both inside and outside the facility.
“Helping the youth is a calling,” he said. “As officers, coaches and mentors, we care about their safety, wellbeing and success.”
McRae also serves as the Vice President of NYC Boldest Football, the department’s own team, reinforcing the strong ties between sports and the profession.
A career focused on mentorship
McRae’s journey—from athlete to correction officer and mentor—reflects the many ways correctional officers serve their communities beyond the walls.
Whether guiding young athletes or connecting with detainees, he continues to find ways to make a difference, both on and off the field.
