Why our youth sports need government support

Youth sports in America are in crisis. In a country with roughly 72.8 million children, it's not because young people don’t want to play sports, but because for far too many, the playing field has tilted toward those with the means to pay.

- Edwin Moses and Renata Simril, Tribune News Service

(Kam Buckner)

For many families, the soaring cost of registration fees, equipment and travel has rendered organised sports an unaffordable luxury.

The result? Millions of children, especially those in low-income communities and communities of color, are shut out of one of the most powerful tools we have for developing healthier, more resilient youths.

It doesn't have to be this way. Across the country, former athletes and nonprofit and political leaders are stepping up with bold, decisive action. Illinois and California are leading the way by reimagining how government can support youth development by promoting sport, play and movement. Their efforts acknowledge a fundamental truth: Access to sports is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Sports and the ability of children to play represent a cornerstone of healthy childhood development. Kids who play sports experience greater academic success. It's a powerful tool for social connection and mental and emotional well-being.