Almost anywhere one goes, there’s a high chance of meeting or seeing someone that has participated in youth sports. Although it depends on the competition level that takes place in the sport, many families spend endless amounts of time and money on their children. Some hope that this time will eventually lead their kids to play at a division one school. Some parents just hope for their kids to enjoy and gain a hobby. No matter the outcome that one wishes, most people seem to glance over the amount spent on equipment, practices, games or tournaments, or the time spent taking kids to practice, watching the games, or always travelling.
The participation in youth sports has increasingly become popular. Many club organizations have opened in local, regional, and global areas. Though these organizations can be a blast to be a part of with experiences and teammate connections that have a chance of lasting a lifetime, from the parent perspective, it can be very troubling and stressful.
According to Project Play , the average U.S. sports family spent $1,016 on their child’s primary sport in 2024 which has had an increase of 46% since 2019. Though this money can be a lot for families, some clubs and families are still able to push their children to do what they love.
Christy Keswick is the founder of the Good Sport nonprofit. Keswick has been a role player in many kids’ lives, providing many underprivileged individuals with opportunities. Keswick had access with the Cincinnati Bengals and was able to provide kids who had a passion for football a chance to play like they have not before.
The Cincinnati Bengals “Access to quality equipment should never be a barrier to play,” Keswick said. “Our mission to support youth programs in Ohio and across the country is only possible because of committed partners.”
Along with many families and parents putting aside other tasks to focus on their kids, families can become easily disappointed. If a kid is not getting noticed by coaches, it is frustrating all around not only because the kid commits so much time to a team, but also, their parents are just as dedicated.
Andrew Brandt is a parent and coach of young athletes. He knows the reality of time and commitment it takes to improve and get opportunities to showcase these athletes. Brandt has always been someone who enjoys sports and has seen the changes taken to improve youth sports in multiple ways.
“I believe we’ve gotten away from playing sports for fun,” Brandt said. “Now it’s playing sports to try to win and get to the next level.”
This can bring a lot of negative perspectives upon youth sports. It can turn into a place or opportunity that destroys an athlete’s confidence or mental health.
When athletes get older and progress, competition increases. Athletes do have to be willing to put in effort if they have specific goals to reach; however, through childhood and teenage years, athletes should be having fun going to practice rather than dreading it. Parents should be able to go watch the hard work that’s paid off by the child and the parent’s commitment.
“We are less worried about all the kids and more focused on what the top five percent are doing,” Brandt said. “So I believe sports needs to be for all and it needs to go back to being for everyone.”
Sports are a time to learn and grow relationships as well as facing challenges. It is a space for young people to get to know how to get back up when things go wrong. There is a lot to appreciate about competitive spirits and attitude, but there is time to separate stressful competition with enjoying something you love.
