Let Them Play

After years of watching as the fees for youth sports increase to a point where it has become difficult for many families to afford, I have a message for the recreation departments and youth sport organizations of the world. Not any one in particular. Just in general.  My message is simple. Let them play.

If children don't develop an interest in sports at an early age, they are far less likely to ever become interested at all. And, even if they do decide to go out for a team in jr. high or high school, they are at a significant disadvantage to those with prior experience and knowledge of a sport, and most often find themselves cut after tryouts.


But...why should we care?

As any high school teacher can tell you, the students who get involved in something outside of the classroom are the ones who have the better experiences in school. School is more fun for them. They are more invested. They have greater accountability. They have more eyes on them and more adults taking an interest in how they are doing off the field. They have coaches who check up on them. Pre-game meals to feed them. Teammates who become friends to them. They have to be at school for practice and games, so their attendance is better, which is reflected in their academic performance. Kids who have extracurricular interests are more likely to stay in school and graduate. How often do you hear about your local school's athletes dropping out?

Not everyone is born with a love of learning. Sometimes, though, a love of sports can make up for that. And, even if their focus is on athletics, they are going to learn along the way. That's just how it works. When you give a child a spot on a team, you are giving him or her another shot at success.

Stop charging so much for a tee shirt and a pair of baseball pants. Surely, we can outfit teams for less than $75 per child! Ask local businesses to sponsor teams to cover the cost of uniforms. Let them advertise on the outfield fence.  Get parents to umpire instead of hiring league officials. It's just a game, after all. Make the community aware of the awesome power and influence of athletics and ask them to make an investment in the future by donating time and money. Successful children become successful adults. Children who feel connected to their communities are more likely to make their homes there, start their businesses there, and give back to the place that influenced them.  So, hold an extra fund raiser or two. Do whatever you have to so that you can give everyone a chance to play. Make it happen.

Sports should not be a luxury limited to only those who can afford it. Often, those who can't pay are the ones who need it more. No matter the background, all children can benefit from being able to participate. We just have to give them the opportunity.

Let them play. Let them gain confidence. Let them find friendships. Let them put down the electronics and pick up a ball. Let them learn what it means to be part of a team and work together with people from all walks of life. It just might change the world. It will definitely change theirs.

Let them play. Let all of them play.