Hey, what’s up everybody! This time we’re diving into some game-changing insights from the latest Parent Survey Report on youth sports. TeamSnap and The Aspen Institute’s Sports & Society Program got responses from over 2,000 parents, and let me tell you, there's a lot we can learn to help our young athletes thrive.
TeamSnap and the Sports & Society Program aimed to assess the national state of youth sports in 2022. They teamed up with Dr. Travis Dorsch, associate professor and founding director of the Families in Sport Lab at Utah State University, and Dr. Jordan Blazo, associate professor and co-founder of the Minds in Motion Laboratory at Louisiana Tech University. This study used an internationally representative sample of youth sport parents in the United States and Canada. So, let’s break it down Teambilt style!
Alright, let’s start with who’s in this survey. We’ve got parents ranging from 18 to 82 years old, with the average age being 38. Most of them are women (61.1%) and a majority are White (60.5%). Income-wise, 42% of families are making between $25,000 and $74,999 a year. This tells us we’ve got a real mix of folks out here, which is important for understanding the landscape of youth sports.
Now, let’s talk money. Parents are putting serious dollars into their kids' sports. This isn’t just a hobby; it’s a big investment. But that also means some families are feeling the pinch, especially those on tighter budgets. We need to make sports affordable so every kid has a shot at playing.
Financial Strain
First up, financial strain. A lot of families are finding it tough to juggle sports expenses with their other needs. This is a big barrier we need to address.
Availability of Quality Programs and Facilities
Next, we’ve got the issue of quality programs and facilities. Parents are saying they want better options and more convenient locations. Right now, there’s a gap that needs filling.
Systemic Barriers
And we can’t ignore the systemic barriers. These are affecting participation rates among different racial and ethnic groups. Inclusivity is key, and we’ve got to break down these barriers.
So, what can we do to make things better? Here are some solid moves:
Increase Funding
We need more funding for community programs. Subsidized fees and equipment grants can help lighten the load for families.
Improve Facility Accessibility
Better facilities are a must. Let’s invest in them and create partnerships to make this happen.
Enhance Coaching Quality
Quality coaching is crucial. Training and certification programs can ensure our kids are getting the best guidance.
Promote Inclusivity
Inclusivity is everything. Outreach initiatives and support for underrepresented groups can make sports welcoming for all kids.
Foster Community Engagement
We need the whole community involved—parents, schools, local organizations. Everyone’s got a role in supporting our young athletes.
Most kids are hitting the field 3 to 5 days a week. They’re putting in the work, with an average of 7.16 hours on coached practice and another 3.40 hours on games each week. That’s dedication.
There are a few common barriers—schedule conflicts, lack of interest, transportation issues. But overall, these aren't the biggest problems. Financial and accessibility issues are the main ones we need to address.
Sport Participation Demographics
When it comes to what sports kids are playing, basketball leads the pack at 36.8%, followed by soccer at 26.5% and baseball at 24.1%. These sports are popular for a reason—they're accessible and have strong community support.
Primary Sport Preferences
Parents echoed these preferences for their kids' primary sports: basketball (20.3%), soccer (16.3%), and baseball (10.3%). These are the sports kids are passionate about.
Context of Participation
Most kids (58.4%) are involved in community-based sports, showing the importance of local programs. Meanwhile, 27.5% are in travel/elite or club sports.
- Factors Influencing Parental Decisions
Parents prioritize factors like more playing time, lower costs, less time commitment, less pressure, and a more inclusive environment. These are the keys to choosing community-based sports over elite leagues.
As we navigate this complex world of youth sports, let’s turn these insights into action. We all have a role to play—whether it’s pushing for more inclusive programs, supporting financial initiatives, or fighting for equal access to facilities. As an industry, let’s come together to empower our young athletes and build a culture of sportsmanship and community. Join us in making a real difference. Let’s shape a brighter future for youth sports, one jersey at a time.
