Financial resources parents have, whether abundant or modest, have a tremendous impact in youth sports. Sound planning, buying, saving, and use of funds, are all part of a team’s stewardship. More important though, is a parent’s attitude about the costs. #DailyMight
Let me start off first by addressing the elephant in the room: There is no statistical correlation between how much a parent spends on an athlete’s athletic journey and their desire to play at a higher level (like high school, college, or the pros). What’s the saying, “… you can’t buy talent!” Truth is, youth sports bring with it qualified and trained coaches, quality opponents, and traditional practice schedules. Not only is it a time commitment, but it’s also a money commitment from parents.
Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?
LUKE 14:28
I can’t in good faith, as a coach with nearly 15 years of experience, say that money isn’t important from season to season. It’s a financial commitment from a parent, and that is not something to take lightly. It can be the deciding factor in participation. I’ve coached from 6U, through High School and beyond – and I’ve formulated some questions that each parent should ask before making available participation from their athlete.
What is the budget?
Asking what the plan is for the season in regards to costs is not unreasonable. From rec leagues, to travel teams, the organization should be able to produce an estimate of the costs to run a season either at the team or organization level. It’s important to know that the team leaders (and sometimes the organization) has a plan to account for all possible costs that might arise for the season. It is not the responsibility of the team to subsidize individual players, but it is the responsibility of the team and organization to be open and transparent of where funds go and will be used for.
What is the individual player cost? What does it include?
In addition to the team budget, a parent should know what the projected cost is for the athlete for the entire season – and what that includes. All team members should share team expenses (i.e. ice fees, transportation costs arranged on behalf of the team to travel as a unit, and other expenses determine necessary by the team and/or coaches). In addition to team costs, expect to pay uniform and registration fees individually as well. Nonetheless, get a breakdown of the player fee – so you can get an idea of what is included in the fee and what isn’t (especially equipment).
Are scholarship, sponsorship, and fundraising opportunities available?
It’s not unusual for an organization or team to have scholarships, grants, or fundraising options available to help mitigate rising costs. Ask openly of the team and organization if these types of opportunities are available – and if they are, ask how you can participate. Most of the time, athlete participation (and parent) in fundraising is voluntary but can be a really great way for the athlete to not only supplement costs – but also learn important life skills regarding money.
What are the payment options?
Make sure before the season starts, you’re in the know of all possible payment options available. For example, say the player fee is $1000. If players are selected to play on the team, maybe the payments can be broken down over two payments – the first half ($500) of the player fee due on the first practice and the second half ($500) of the fee possible at the mid point. Generally though, all athlete financial obligations must be met prior to the end of the season.
By asking the right questions prior to the season – and with some sound planning, buying, saving, and use of funds by the team leaders – parents can feel confident about the financial investment it takes to participate. And when we have confident parents, we have confident athletes. A win-win for all involved.
Give everything your everything. And then some.
