Bennington
Rising Costs in Youth Sports Draw Attention from Regulators in Southern Vermont
Courtney Hamby and her husband spend close to $6,000 per year for their daughter Ellie’s cheer and tumbling classes, competition fees and uniforms. That doesn’t include their travel expenses for multiple out-of-town competitions, including hotel rooms, gas, meals, and sometimes…
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Key points
- Youth sports have become a $40 billion industry, raising costs for families.
- State and federal regulators are investigating potential anticompetitive practices in youth sports.
- There is growing concern that rising costs are making youth sports inaccessible for many families.
NewsWK — As youth sports continue to grow into a $40 billion industry, families in Southern Vermont are feeling the financial strain of participation. With parents spending thousands each year on team fees, uniforms, and travel, the increasing commercialization of youth sports is drawing scrutiny from state and federal regulators.
According to a report first published by Stateline, some families are spending upwards of $20,000 annually on their children’s sports activities. This includes not only registration fees but also costs for travel, accommodations, and competition-related expenses. Many parents express concerns that these rising costs are making sports less accessible to families who cannot afford them.
Local Impact and Concerns
In Vermont, youth sports leagues have seen an influx of private investment, attracting the attention of regulators who are worried about potential anticompetitive practices. For instance, Michigan’s Attorney General has launched an investigation into the practices of the Black Bear Sports Group, which has been accused of raising costs and limiting choices for families in youth hockey. This concern mirrors issues that could arise in Vermont as well.
“Youth sports should not be a luxury good,” said U.S. Rep. Chris Deluzio during a community hearing. He emphasized that children get left behind when families can’t keep up with the escalating costs of youth sports.
What to Watch For
As private equity firms increasingly invest in youth sports organizations, local communities, including those in Bennington and surrounding areas, may see changes in how sports are organized and funded. State and federal lawmakers are considering legislation to curb potentially predatory practices by these firms, aiming to ensure that youth sports remain accessible to all families.
The trend of rising expenses in youth sports impacts not just participation but also the overall community dynamics, with many parents feeling pressured to spend beyond their means to ensure their children have opportunities to excel.
What’s next? As discussions around the commercialization of youth sports continue, families in Southern Vermont should stay informed about potential regulatory actions and how these changes may affect local sports programs.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting by Anna Claire Vollers originally published by Stateline. Read the original story.
