As a parent, I have personally experienced the lack of accountability in youth sports academies. My child's offer was rescinded simply because we asked questions. They were called out and in fear of exposure my child was bullied off the team. This is not an isolated incident but a reflection of a systemic issue that needs to be addressed urgently. The contracts we sign with these academies are one-sided and unfair, stating that they can keep our money even if they fail to deliver on their promises.

Youth sports are meant to foster talent, encourage healthy competition, and build character among young people. However, the current state of affairs is far from this ideal. According to the Aspen Institute's Project Play report (2019), only 38% of parents believe that youth sports organizations do a good job at transparency and accountability.
Try outs should be after the season. Having them in spring for fall creates a uncomfortable atmosphere when you know you're not wanted but forced to stay to finish out the year. Having them so early leads to rushed decisions. Then you paid and can't get a refund.  Here is what I propose 

Try outs should be regulated by a governing board not each Academy, an outside professional comes in and ranks the kids based on their performance. This way its completely unbiased.  If these are such "high-level" talent academies or clubs then only those who ranked highest should get an offer. Too often do academies just take everyone they can for money then bench your child which goes against their own motto. They claim development but what we get is favoritism and below Academy level training. 

30 day window for ALL entities to host try outs

Acceptance letters send within 7 days of completion of try outs. 

PARENTS HAVE 14 DAYS TO RESPOND. Giving 3 days to respond forces rushed decisions and needs to change. 

Guest players should not be allowed if you have 90% of your team. Often these coaches bring in guest players  with full rosters "TO WIN" and that takes away from the kids that actually earned their spot and paid to be there.  There should also be a cap of how many guest players you can bring and how much playing time they receive. 

We need a policy that lists violations and the consequences to those violations. I have listed 2 minor examples. Far to often do these clubs make up rules and repercussions based on fear of exposure of unjust bias treatment of our innocent children. 

Violation: Parent yells at referee

Repercussion: 2 week parent suspension 

Violation: Parent yelling at coach 

Repercussion: 2 week parent suspension 

We need change now more than ever. We demand that these academies become accountable for their actions and transparent in their dealings with parents and children alike. They should provide clear information about their programs, fees, selection criteria, coaches' qualifications among other things.

The time has come for us as parents to stand up against this injustice being done to our children under the guise of youth sports development programs. Let’s raise our voices together for transparency and fairness in youth sports academies across the country.

Please sign this petition today!