Get our exclusive report. Download the iSport360 Club Switching Report Here – For Club Admins, Rec Leaders and Coaches.
Despite World Cup, Youth Soccer Participation Is Falling Steadily in America
Image by Nicole Craine for The New York Times
Applause to the New York Times for covering iSport360’s strong message to youth sports administrators, coaches and parents: High costs and increased pressure at young ages is pushing kids to quit soccer and youth sports on the whole. The New York Times reports:
—In the last 3 years, soccer participation has decreased 14% among 6-12 year olds according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association.
—American Youth Soccer Organization has lost 19% of its players in the last 3 years according to Lisa Sparrow, AYSO Regional Commissioner.
—”We are putting kids in tryout and team situations before they are psychologically and emotionally ready” says Chris Moore, CEO of US Youth Soccer Association.
—“My family would not have been able to afford to put me in soccer if I was a young kid today” says Hope Solo, former goalkeeper for the 2015 Women’s Word Cup championship team.
—“We need to do a better job of engaging and educating parents, says Nico Romeijn, US Soccer’s Chief Sport Development Officer.
Learn more or request a demo of our youth sports software that is helping teams improve communication, organization and player development.
August 1, 2018
