Like many of you, I grew up playing multiple sports - four to be precise. I was lucky. Not all of my friends shared my fortune. I knew many who desired to participate in sports, but were unfairly hindered. The barriers? simply the costs that they, or their families, could not afford. A single sports registration alone cost upwards of $200, and this doesn't even include the extra gear required. 

This is not an isolated experience. According to a 2018 study by the Aspen Institute, youth participation in sports is sharply declining, primarily due to high expenses related to training, equipment, and registration fees. The benefits of sports: respect, discipline, friendships, leadership skills, and a healthy lifestyle aren’t being enjoyed by all.

This petition is aimed to challenge the status quo. We demand local sports associations, schools, and state policy makers take action to make sports affordable for our youth. We insist on a reduction in registration fees, and the availability of affordable, or even free, equipment provisions.

The physical, psychological, and social benefits of sports are too many to be confined to a few who can afford them. This is about our kids and their shared right to enjoy playing sports without financial burdens. Let's level the playing field. It's time to make youth sports affordable for all. Please, sign this petition today.