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Big Debate

Are Youth Sports Too Intense?

As You Read, Think About: What are some benefits of playing sports?

Photo of a proud kid standing next to a very tall trophy

Courtesy of family

LeShawn Lyle with one of his many basketball trophies

LeShawn Lyle spends just about all his free time playing basketball. The fifth-grader is from Chattanooga, Tennessee. He can often be found on the court copying the moves of his favorite players. On weekends, he sometimes travels for hours to compete in tournaments. One website ranks LeShawn as one of the top ten basketball players in the entire country among kids his age.

“I want to go to the NBA,” says LeShawn. “That takes a lot of practice, dedication, and hard work.”

LeShawn is one of countless young athletes in the U.S. who dream of one day going pro. Many kids train and compete year-round in sports such as soccer, baseball, swimming, and tennis.

However, not everyone thinks all that intense competition is a good idea. Some people say it puts too much pressure on kids and takes the fun out of playing sports. They argue that when competing starts to feel like an , kids lose interest. 

Are youth sports too intense?

Yes

Image of a busy calendar with days taken up by sporting responsibilities

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For many kids, sports can seem like a full-time job that leaves little time for friends and family. And specializing in one sport can prevent athletes from exploring other interests. 

“If you focus too much on one sport at a young age, you may miss out on something else you may enjoy,” explains Charles Popkin. He’s a doctor who works with young athletes. He has treated many kids who’ve gotten injuries from using the same muscles over and over.

Another problem for young athletes is burnout. The pressure of competing can lead them to quit a sport altogether. Also, the cost of league fees, equipment, travel, and lessons can really add up. 

Many people also worry that kids and their parents are setting unrealistic goals. After all, the chances of playing a sport professionally are slim. For example, by one estimate, only about 1 in 2,600 high school basketball players make it to the pros. 

Kids on some travel teams have practice or games seven days a week.

Source: Aspen Institute Project Play Fall 2022 Parents Survey

No

Many people argue that playing sports is similar to playing piano, chess, or anything else. To be your best, you have to practice. They point out that top athletes like tennis champion Coco Gauff began training seriously at a young age. Many kids know that facing the best competition often requires traveling to tournaments. LeShawn says it has also helped him bond with his teammates. 

In addition, a lot of parents say they’d rather see their kids playing sports than spending more time on their phones or playing video games. They say as long as kids are having fun and not being pushed too hard, what’s the harm?

Plus, kids who are serious about sports learn the importance of hard work and determination. That can help them succeed as adults—in sports and beyond.

Coco Gauff

Image of a tennis player about to hit the ball
Aaron Gilbert/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

7 years old

Age when she started playing tennis

14 years old

Age at which she turned pro

$22.7 million*

Her earnings in 2023

*Source: Sportico

 

 

Close-Reading Questions

  1. What does the author mean by “intense competition”? What details in the article help you know?
  2. Why do some people worry that young athletes and their parents have unrealistic goals?
  3. According to the article, what are some of the advantages of kids playing sports? 

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