5 Major Issues With Youth Sports in the United States
Published On: 11/18/2022
Having participated in various sports as a player and a coach, I've discovered five key issues with young sports in the United States. Among the issues is a lack of access to sports, a high-pressure environment, and a lack of character development.
Throughout their essay, Arinze and McGarry emphasize the role of social work in youth sports and issue a call to action to use sports platforms to address young people's social-emotional needs. The authors, in particular, propose innovative research methodologies, advocate for new measurement tools, and emphasize the importance of youth sports as an evidence-based intervention for socially vulnerable kids.
The use of a social work lens is one novel method to study. This method enables social workers to uncover evidence-based strategies that strengthen sports as a setting for belonging and learning and comprehend the intersection of structural elements that influence sports participation. It also allows youth to use sports to improve their lives, increase social equity, and seek justice from oppressive institutions.
A mixed methodologies approach is another research strategy. This method gives information about program implementation, staff training experiences, and the possible influence on club members.
Several studies have been undertaken in the United States to examine the extrinsic influences on youth sports. These elements, according to studies, influence child athletes' motivation to participate in sports. It is also crucial to recognize that not all athletes are intrinsically motivated. To optimum performance, a good balance of both is required.
Extrinsic motivation is based on incentives and punishments from outside sources. This motivation can be present in both professional and amateur athletes. It is vital to note, however, that it is not sustainable. Athletes motivated by extrinsic factors are more likely to become discouraged if their expectations are not met. Using extrinsic motivation to drive athletes may also harm their self-esteem.
The primary purpose of this study was to assess the numerous elements influencing the involvement motives of youth football players. Researchers polled 223 youth football athletes (YFAs) from ten New York City high schools. The study's breadth may have been constrained due to the tiny sample size. However, it supplied researchers with a wealth of information about health-related behaviours.
Despite the benefits of sports, players are frequently under pressure to perform at a high level. Athletes face pressure to succeed, whether from their parents, coaches, or other athletes.
Athletes confront internal and external expectations to perform, whether participating in a game, competition, or practice. When these pressures are not managed, athletes may feel like failures.
External pressures for certain athletes may include parents or coaches focusing on winning rather than performing their best. Others may have to deal with various internal stressors, such as injuries, overuse, or burnout. Parents can play an essential role in mitigating the detrimental effects of pressure on athletes in these situations.
According to one study, reducing the number of stressors that athletes confront is the greatest method to reduce stress. This can be accomplished by providing a safe sports atmosphere. Creating an environment free of harassment and prejudice can also help athletes cope with stress.
Sports have historically been heavily ingrained in the young culture. They have provided a foundation for self-esteem, personal responsibility, and emotional well-being. However, youth sports participation is falling. This drop is especially noticeable in minority communities. A lack of possibilities, higher prices, and time obligations contribute to the downturn.
The US made an effort to strengthen its youth sports system. The National Youth Sports Strategy was unveiled (NYSS). The plan outlines a common vision, action items, and possibilities. It advocates for various approaches to engaging youth, including a more professional approach.
Aside from the national approach, several local community sports organizations cooperate with national sports organizations to effect systemic change. These organizations are identifying strategies to ensure the viability of youth sports and providing youth with the resources they need to participate in sports.
The youth sports system in the United States is transitioning to a professional, hierarchical paradigm. It is becoming profit-driven, in addition to focusing on performance-related results. Tax benefits and investments fund the sports business.