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Why It Matters

The Cost of Youth Sports Is Rising - And Too Many Kids Are Being Left Behind

 

 

Youth Sports Now Cost Families Over $1,000 Per Child, Per Sport - Each Year

 

  • The average family spends $1,000+ annually on one child’s primary sport.

 

  • Costs have increased 46% since 2019.

 

  • Competitive travel teams can cost families $3,000–$7,000 per year.

 

For many families, especially those already facing financial strain, these costs are simply not possible.


 

Income Determines Opportunity

 

  • Children from higher-income families participate in organized sports at significantly higher rates than children from low-income households.

 

  • Participation gaps between low-income and high-income youth have widened over the past decade.

 

  • Cost is one of the top reasons children drop out of sports.

 

Talent should never be determined by zip code - but too often, it is.

 

Sports Change Lives

 

Research consistently shows that youth who participate in organized athletics experience:

 

  • Higher self-confidence

 

  • Stronger leadership skills

 

  • Improved mental health

 

  • Better academic engagement

 

  • Increased sense of belonging

 

Sports provide structure, mentorship, discipline, and purpose - especially for underserved youth.


 

Financial Barriers End Dreams Early

 

Many children are forced to quit before middle school because:

 

  • Registration fees are too high

 

  • Equipment and uniforms are unaffordable

 

  • Travel expenses create hardship

 

  • Camps and development programs are out of reach

 

When cost becomes the deciding factor, potential is lost, regardless of the passion.

 

 

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Physical Activity & Quality Play Spaces

 

 

Children who are physically active and have access to safe play and sport environments experience improved outcomes across health, academics, and social development:

 

Academic Performance

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  • Students who are regularly physically active tend to have better concentration, memory, and classroom behavior, which can lead to improved academic performance.
     

  • Research links regular movement to higher standardized test scores and stronger cognitive functioning. (CDC, Physical Activity and Academic Achievement)

 

School Engagement

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  • Schools with regular recess and physical education see higher attendance rates and lower discipline issues.

 

  • Students with access to quality playgrounds are more engaged, socially connected, and confident — factors tied to long-term academic success.

 

Health & Well-Being

 

  • Only 1 in 4 children get the recommended amount of daily physical activity, increasing risk for obesity, diabetes, and mental health concerns. (CDC)

 

  • Youth who engage in regular sports and play are more likely to have improved self-esteem, reduced anxiety, and better long-term health.

 

Equity in Activity

 

  • Children attending low-income or under-resourced schools often lack safe, quality playgrounds and gym equipment, which correlates with lower physical activity levels and widening health gaps.

 

  • Equipping schools with updated play and gym facilities is shown to increase daily activity and foster inclusive play for all students.


 

That's Why We Exist

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The Live Like Jailen Foundation removes financial barriers so children can:

🏀 Step onto the court

🏈 Take the field

🎓 Earn scholarships

🛝 Learn and grow in schools equipped with safe playgrounds and quality gym resources

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Because every child deserves the chance to play - and no dream should end because of money.

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