Kiyoshi Fish, MA’s Post

🚨 **Youth Sports Update: Balancing Act of Costs and Benefits** 🚨 In the dynamic world of youth sports, we're witnessing a delicate balance between rising costs and the undeniable benefits for our young athletes. A recent survey by the Aspen Institute highlighted a concerning trend: families are now spending an average of $883 annually on their child's primary sport. This increase in costs, particularly in travel and registration, is causing some families to reconsider their children's participation in sports. However, the benefits of youth sports participation cannot be overstated. Beyond physical activity, sports play a crucial role in developing social skills, resilience, and teamwork among children. They also offer a critical countermeasure to the growing obesity epidemic among youth. Yet, there's a stark disparity in participation between income groups, with lower-income families significantly less likely to involve their children in sports due to financial and time commitments. This gap underscores the need for a collective effort to make sports more accessible and inclusive for all children. Let's come together as a community to address these challenges and ensure every child has the opportunity to experience the growth, learning, and joy that come from participating in youth sports. Together, we can make a difference! #YouthSports #Inclusivity #CommunityEngagement #PhysicalActivity #childdevelopment

We may have forgotten youth sports in DEI. Let's make youth sports equitable to everyone. We paid over $3000 last year in club fees, meets, private coaching lessons, equipment, and traveling. "The difference between the haves and have-nots when it comes to youth sports are bracing: 34.1 percent of kids from the poorest families were on sports teams or had coaching outside of school, compared with 67.7 percent of the wealthiest families, according to the 2020-2021 National Survey of Children’s Health." More active kids means more healthy adults down the line. #sports #equity #DEI https://lnkd.in/giUK_hRY

Making Youth Sports Affordable: A Parent’s Guide Did you know that the rising costs of youth sports are sidelining many kids? According to recent studies, low-income families are six times more likely to have their children quit sports due to financial constraints. This not only limits their physical activity but also impacts their mental well-being and social development. Here's how we can help: 💰 Invest in Community Programs: Support initiatives like Jumpstart that offer financial aid and resources. 🏋️♂️ Advocate for Equitable Access: Push for policies that reduce costs for families and keep youth sports inclusive. 🌟 Promote Mental Health: Ensure that every child has the opportunity to benefit from the physical and mental health advantages of participating in sports. Together, we can ensure that no child is left on the sidelines. #YouthSports #Sportsbiz #LinkedInSports #Kids #Parents #Accessibility https://lnkd.in/ecdBfEuN

Sticking with youth sports pays off. Researchers found long-term youth sports participation boosts adult mental health, but dropping out leads to worse outcomes than never playing at all. A problem, as youth leagues grow more professionalized, kids are having less fun — fueling a culture of quitters. Calling for change, the Olympic Commission wants the US government to intervene, while companies like Unrivaled Sports and League One Volleyball are investing in better development programs. Redesigning the youth sports journey is crucial to ensuring kids become physically and mentally healthy adults.

New federal government data on sports participation is out with analysis from USAFacts. The National Survey of Children's Health found that 54% of children ages 6-17 in the U.S. played on a sports team or took lessons in 2022 — down from 58% in 2017. The goal is 63% by 2030. Sports participation rates tend to be higher in the Northern U.S. than in Southern states, following a trend we saw during COVID-19. In 2022, the states with the highest percentage were Vermont (69%), Iowa (68%), North Dakota (67%), Maine (64%), and Wyoming (64%). New Mexico had the lowest percentage of kids involved in sports at 41%. Other states with low rates: Nevada (46%), Mississippi (46%), Louisiana (47%), and West Virginia (48%). The decline in sports participation rates has been more pronounced among girls than boys. From 2017 to 2022, boys participation decreased from 61% to 58%, while girls dropped from 56% to 49%. The largest decreases in participation rates among racial and ethnic groups were among Hispanic kids, whose participation dropped 7.9 points from 50.0% to 42.1%, and Asian kids, whose participation fell 9.5 points from 59.6% to 50.1%. Sports participation rates among kids from families below the federal poverty level dropped 6.5 percentage points, while those between one and two times the federal poverty level dropped 3.3 points, and those between two and four times that level fell 7.1 points. Via Aspen Institute Sports & Society #YouthSports #Sports #Kids #LinkedinSports #Sportsbiz

Empowering Youth Through Sports: Building Stronger Communities Youth empowerment through sports isn’t just about scoring goals or winning trophies – it’s about nurturing the next generation of leaders, problem-solvers, and community builders. When we provide young people with opportunities to engage in sports, we’re giving them more than just a game; we’re equipping them with essential life skills that transcend the playing field. In every community, sports have the power to break down barriers, foster inclusion, and instill values like teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Whether it’s kicking a soccer ball, shooting hoops, or swinging a racket, sports teach young people the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity and the value of collaboration towards a common goal. Moreover, youth involvement in sports cultivates a sense of belonging and identity, helping them develop confidence and self-esteem crucial for navigating the challenges of adolescence. By harnessing the energy and enthusiasm of our youth, we can channel their potential towards positive social change, making our communities stronger, safer, and more vibrant. As professionals, educators, and community leaders, let’s recognize the pivotal role that sports play in shaping the future of our youth. Let’s invest in programs and initiatives that promote equal access to sports opportunities for all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances. Together, let’s empower our youth through sports and unlock their full potential to create a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow. #EMPOWERNXT #SportsForChange #CommunityBuilding

“34.1 percent of kids from the poorest families were on sports teams or had coaching outside of school, compared with 67.7 percent of the wealthiest families, according to the 2020-2021 National Survey of Children’s Health.” - The New York Times Let’s talk about money and youth sport participation. According to the The Aspen Institute, families spent on average $833 to $2,063 for each child’s participation per season. This is a significant expense. Why is access to sports teams and organizations so important? Sports aren’t just an extracurricular–they translate to collegiate opportunities and, importantly, provide community, structure, mental and physical benefits. Vast disparities exist within the youth sports landscape based on whether or not a family can afford for their child to pursue their goals and aspirations athletically. But, access to athletic programs is not just essential for reasons of achievement, it’s a necessary cornerstone for children building a healthy relationship to movement and developing many life skills. As we talk about the sports industry, it’s important to remember that the kids of today are the athletes of tomorrow–and they deserve equal access. Regardless of whether a child wants to pursue a sport at the elite level, they still also deserve exposure to sport and the option to participate in physical activity programs. Let’s keep money in mind when we talk about sports. #YouthSports #economy #wealth #accessibility #movement #SportsBusiness 

Have you ever wondered why 43% of girls quit sports by the age of 13? This alarming statistic raises important questions about how we can better support young female athletes. Did you know that football offers numerous health benefits for girls, including improved cardiovascular fitness, increased muscle strength, and enhanced mental health through teamwork and discipline? Plus, here’s a fun trivia fact: The first Women’s World Cup was held in 1991, paving the way for countless female athletes to shine on the global stage. How can we encourage more girls to continue playing sports like football and reap these incredible benefits? Here are some solutions to encourage more girls to continue playing sports like football: 1. Create a Supportive Environment:   - Parental Involvement: Educate parents on the importance of sports in their daughters' lives and encourage them to be supportive.   - Mentorship Programs: Connect young girls with female role models in sports who can provide guidance and inspiration. 2. Improve Access to Facilities and Resources:   - Community Programs: Develop community-based programs that provide free or low-cost access to sports facilities and equipment.   - School Support: Advocate for schools to offer more sports programs specifically for girls, ensuring they have equal opportunities to participate. 3. Enhance Coaching and Training:   - Female Coaches: Recruit and train more female coaches who can serve as role models and provide a relatable figure for young girls.   - Coach Education: Offer training for coaches on how to create a positive and inclusive environment that addresses the specific needs of young female athletes. 4. Promote the Benefits of Sports Participation:    - Health Education: Educate girls and their families about the physical, mental, and social benefits of participating in sports like football.   - Success Stories: Share stories of successful female athletes who started young and highlight their journeys and achievements. 5. Address Social and Cultural Barriers:   - Tackle Stereotypes: Challenge and change stereotypes about girls and sports through media campaigns and educational programs.   - Inclusivity Initiatives: Ensure sports programs are inclusive and welcoming to girls of all backgrounds and abilities. 6. Make Football Fun and Engaging: Variety of Activities**: Incorporate a variety of activities and games to keep football training sessions fun and engaging. 7. Social Events: Organize social events and tournaments that create a sense of community and belonging among young female players. #innovation #football #purpose #inside3stripes #WomenInSports #GirlsInSports #InspiringWomenAthletes #TrailblazingSportswomen #FemaleAthleteInspiration #SportsHeroines #BreakingBarriers #PuneFootball #MumbaiFootball #DelhiFootball #TrendingFootball #FootballInIndia #FootballCityPune #FootballCityMumbai #FootballCityDelhi #IndianFootballScene #FootballCultureIndia

The Power of Inclusion in Youth Sports At Equal Play Sports, we’re committed to breaking barriers in youth sports, ensuring every child, regardless of their background or abilities, has the opportunity to thrive. Why Inclusion Matters: • Confidence & Social Skills: Inclusive sports boost self-esteem and interpersonal skills (University of Michigan). • Addressing Inequality: 40% of underrepresented children face barriers to sports (Sport England). • Support for SEND Children: Adapted programs improve motor skills and cognitive abilities (Journal of Physical Education and Sport). Our Approach: • Tailored Coaching: Inclusive sessions integrating sensory-friendly activities. • Affordable Access: Partnerships with schools and communities to reduce barriers. • Diverse Opportunities: Inspiring children to explore football, tennis, Formula E, and more. At Equal Play Sports, we believe in unlocking every child’s sporting potential. Follow us to learn more about how we’re creating an inclusive future in sports. #EqualPlay #InclusionInSports #YouthDevelopment #SportsForAll

The State of Youth Sports: Nationally and Locally in Snohomish County, WA As we reflect on the current landscape of youth sports, both nationally and here in Snohomish County, it's clear we're at a crossroads. Youth sports have long been a platform for developing essential life skills—teamwork, perseverance, and leadership—but access to these opportunities is becoming increasingly unequal. The Good: Nationally, over 60% of children participate in organized sports, with studies consistently showing that sports involvement boosts academic performance and improves mental health. Locally, Snohomish County offers a range of community-based programs that provide low-cost access, ensuring that children from diverse economic backgrounds can still engage in athletics. Programs like [insert local low-cost sports initiative] serve as shining examples of how to keep sports accessible to all. The Challenges: However, a troubling trend has emerged: the rapid growth of for-profit sports organizations. Nationally, youth sports have ballooned into a $60 billion industry, pricing out many families. In Snohomish County, we've seen this trend as well, with travel teams, specialized coaching, and elite programs creating barriers for low-income families. The average cost of youth sports can now exceed $1,000 per child annually, forcing many to make tough decisions. As access dwindles, we're seeing participation rates drop by as much as 30% in lower-income areas, both nationally and locally, which is heartbreaking. Sports should be a right for all children, not a privilege for those who can afford it. What We Can Do: Now more than ever, we need to advocate for greater equity in youth sports. Whether it’s supporting local non-profits, volunteering as coaches, or pushing for more funding in school sports programs, we all have a role to play in ensuring that every child in Snohomish County—and across the nation—has the chance to succeed through sports. Or create a coalition of linke minded individuals and youth organizations. Snohomish County Athletic Arts Coalition SCAAC #YouthSports #CommunityImpact #SnohomishCounty #SportsForAll #SCAAC