With the cost of youth sports going up, organizations like the YMCA say they’re working to make sure money isn’t what keeps kids off the field.
CHESAPEAKE, Va. — As the spring sports season kicks off, families in Hampton Roads are feeling the pinch. From registration fees to equipment and travel, youth athletics can be expensive. However, experts say there are ways to make sports more accessible, even when budgets are tight.
Mitchell Pitts, Senior Sports Director at the YMCA, has seen firsthand how rising costs impact families. He says sports aren’t just games; they teach teamwork, confidence, and resilience.
“It brings interpersonal skills; it lets kids learn how to tackle a situation that they can’t typically overcome. It’s helping prepare them for life. It’s developing those skills, learning how to overcome those challenges, whether it’s with words or body language,” Pitts explained.
Pitts, who has worked in youth sports for years, also points out that while the over $40 billion industry is booming, it can be expensive.
“We are in a hotbed; there are so many sports activities. Parents can find many different options, but that’s where that price point hits. You have to pay for groceries, you have to pay for rent, housing, so it’s where can you go find something that makes sense to your budget.”
Programs like the YMCA aim to keep costs manageable through volunteer coaches, providing equipment, and offering scholarships.
“We have a program called Open Doors, which provides scholarships to families. We have over 2,000 kids that are on financial assistance for just youth sports,” Pitts said.
Even with assistance programs, some families still struggle. Pitts shared the story of a family unsure whether their child could play soccer because of finances.
“A family called me a couple of weeks ago, and they weren’t sure if they were going to pay for soccer, and it was because of finances,” he said. However, he tells us, he made sure the family knew that would not be a barrier to getting their kid on the field, and he talked to them about the financial assistance.
Pitts emphasizes that parents shouldn’t let cost stand in the way of participation. Asking about financial aid and exploring local programs can make a big difference.
“That’s what makes me happy, we’re giving kids the opportunity to be out, to get exercise, to make friends, and to tackle challenges,” Pitts said.
He also highlights the broader benefits of youth sports. Research shows that girls who play sports are more likely to become business leaders later in life, a trend highlighted in a Fast Company article he referenced.
Even in communities where costs are rising, opportunities exist to keep kids in the game. Families are encouraged to reach out to organizations like the YMCA to learn about scholarships and financial aid programs.
For more information about financial assistance for youth sports, visit the YMCA website.