Youth $ports

Top 6 Parenting Mistakes That Cause Kids to Quit Sports Feb 19, 2025

Episode 35: Asia Mape (4-time Emmy Award winning journalist and Sports Television producer, Founder of "I Love To Watch You Play" blog)

- Asia Mape comes into being a youth sports parent with a WEALTH of unique experiences from her profession: Covering 5 Olympics, multiple NBA playoffs, 2 Super Bowls, etc. in her time with Fox Sports, ESPN, TNT, NFL Network, etc.

- Mape has learned from her successes and mistakes as a youth sports parent. Now her goal is to help others navigate this tricky season of life.

- Co-founder of "I Love to Watch You Play" where she works to change the narrative around being a youth sports parent. Her blog is a safe space for parents to continue to learn from mistakes and grow into a healthier version of themselves on the sidelines.

- Mape recently had an incredible article titled, "Top 6 Parenting Mistakes That Cause Kids to Quit Sports." Each of the 6 mistakes were frightening accurate and contribute to the crazy current landscape of youth sports.

- How can we sift through some of the crazy in youth sports to get to the good?

- Parents and athletes are bringing an individual mindset into team sports now... and that is making it harder for everyone involved.

- Don't steal your young child's joy for the game. Instead, be a safe landing spot for them to work through the good and the bad. There is a beauty in the struggle.

- And of course... MORE Hot Takes!

Magic Formula Feb 12, 2025

Episode 34 : Shae Robertson (Former Ohio University Soccer Player, Current coach/trainer)

- Former All-American soccer player and Ohio University standout, Shae Robertson, is now on the "other side" of her playing career.

- It didn't take long for Robertson to get back into the game by coaching and training young athletes. She is quickly seeing the youth sports world from a different lense.

- Parents are constantly looking to Robertson for answers about the "magic formula" to become a Division 1 soccer player. "What did you do? How often did you train? What can my daughter/son do to reach that goal?" It's just not that simple.

- Robertson shares some great stories about what she believes made her become the special player she was... And guess what? It wasn't forking over $$$ for extra training every day. It was... *drum roll*... PLAYING in the backyard. Making up games with her friends that inadvertently were getting her more touches on the ball.

- What if I told you the magic formula is LOVING the game?

- As Robertson's former club and high school soccer coach, we take a walk down memory lane with some stories about the dynamics of being anointed as a "star player" and some of the pressure that comes with it.

- We also discuss the recruiting process. Robertson has some great advice for young athletes and parents.

- A stark reminder, once again, that college athletics is not necessarily the "dreamboat" that everyone envisions it to be. It's hard. It's not always fun. And it's a killer on the body.

- And of course... More HOT TAKES

The Good in Sports Feb 05, 2025

Episode 33: Melissa Harper (CEO/Co-founder of Good Sports)

- Good Sports started 21 years ago by providing a U-Haul full of 500 basketballs for a program in need. Today, Good Sports has donated over $110 million worth of equipment to 10 million kids across the country.

-Good Sports is an organization with a mission to help provide equitable access in youth sports and physical activity.

- Harper was tired of seeing a youth sports system that created "haves" and "have nots." She wants to help level the playing field by focusing on high need communities and helping with access to resources/equipment.

- Harper discusses simple barriers that many kids face, such as not having a sports bra or the basic equipment needed to have a functional practice.

- Even fundraising isn't equitable. Families who are struggling to meet their own basic needs don't have the time/energy to pour into selling wrapping paper door-to-door. And when some families can simply "write a check" to cover the amount... It's even less equitable.

- Good Sports conducted a survey and found some alarming results...

- 90% of parents associate their kids playing sports with positive outcomes. But 75% of parents reported considering withdrawing their children from youth sports due to the cost/financial stress.

- According to Harper, this isn't just a low-income area issue either. Parents across ALL socioeconomic classes are feeling the stress.

- Sports/activity needs to be handed back to local communities. Unfortunately, parks and rec budgets, local funding, etc. have been cut. PE programs have been cut. The only options left are "elite" and expensive options. Those are no longer truly reserved for "elite" athletes.

- We discuss actionable items. It starts at the grassroots/local level. A small action can have a big impact. But this is an URGENT concern. We can't let generations of kids miss out on the great things sports/activity should offer.

- And of course... more HOT TAKES.

Swinging For The Fences Jan 29, 2025

Episode 32: Jordan Vorbrink (Former WKU Softball player)

- Jordan Vorbrink committed to the University of Louisville as a FRESHMAN in high school to play softball.

- Vorbrink said committing early took some of the pressure off her shoulders throughout her high school career, but opponents did have a target on her back because she was a Louisville commit.

- Softball is an expensive sport (travel, equipment, etc.). Vorbrink says many teammates along the way didn't have family in the stands or had to travel with teammates to make it tournaments.

- We discuss if softball was rightfully ranked #3 on the "Youth $ports Craziest Youth Sports" Top 10 list. Vorbrink agreed that the youth softball world IS crazy.

- Why are softball parents some of the craziest? Keeping their own stats on the sideline, screaming at umpires and opposing coaches, having a superstition on where they sit, etc.

- Vorbrink agreed that the "Ring situation" has gotten out of control in softball/baseball.

- We discuss the objectivity of a sport like softball compared to some other sports. If you are the best, the stats typically back it up. Less room for complaining from parents.

- We compare the position of pitcher in softball to the QB in football. Although both are team sports, the success of the team is largely determined by that one particular position. Does this cause parents to jockey for their child to be the star pitcher at young ages?

- Vorbrink warns about burnout. Softball places such an emphasis on games, games, games. Players don't always stick with the sport by the time they reach high school.

- Life after being an athlete your whole life. Did you know there's a word for that? "NARP"

- And as always, more HOT TAKES. Vorbrink absolutely destroys a movie that most people tend to love... Tune in to find out!

Once, Twice, Three Times a Guest Jan 22, 2025

Episode 31: Jordan Parker (3-time podcast guest and champion of the Most Downloaded Episode)

- Jordan Parker returns for the 3rd time as a guest on the Youth $ports Podcast. He is the reigning MVP of Most Downloaded Episodes and The HOTTEST Hot Take

- This time Jordan chose the topics...

- Jordan explored the phenomenon of what he refers to as "Talent Pockets." Why are certain hot spots more likely to churn out top athletes in certain sports/positions as compared to others?

- 3 great examples of Talent Pockets: Louisiana's wide receivers, Liverpool and Manchester (smaller, working class towns) with soccer players and Jamaica's sprinters. We hypothesize as to why this happens...

- One theory behind the talent pockets is that certain athletes/sports get exposed more than others in particular towns/states/cities. The hometown heroes and people who kids grow up aspiring to be might have an impact on this phenomenon.

- Youth sports mirrors the business world in some ways. Self-made millionaires and billionaires have a different drive/work ethic than people who might inherit the $ and businesses. Not ALWAYS, but it’s different when you had to be the one to put in the grunt work to get there.

- You are never going to beat out the kid who grows up WANTING to just play the game/sport they love all the time. The kid who chooses that over all other options kids have. THAT is going to be hard to beat.

- The episode takes a different turn halfway through as we discuss the lack of women in coaching. Why? What makes it so challenging to get in and stay in the profession as a woman? We both discuss some of the ways barriers can be removed. It won’t fix the problem, but it’s a start.

- Representation matters. If you don’t grow up seeing women in positions of leadership in coaching, or talking about sports on TV, etc…it’s hard to achieve it if you don’t first see it.

- Story time: You won't want to miss my story about my New Orleans Tarot Card reading experience...

- And last, but certainly not least, perhaps my favorite HOT TAKES segment of all time. We discuss things about yourself that you don't realize are "weird" until you live with someone else...

D-1 or Bust: Is It A Must? Jan 15, 2025

Episode 30 (Mary Martin Hampton, Centre College Women's Soccer player who started her career at Univ. of Florida)

- Not every kid makes the top team at age 10. Hampton is the perfect example of starting on the 3rd level team and working her way up to the top level by high school.

- Some kids take longer than others to reach their potential.

- The trend of youth coaches valuing skill at a young age over athleticism. The athletes tend to have a higher ceiling in the end.

- Hampton STRONGLY vouches for playing multiple sports even through high school: Avoid burnout, cross-training, difference sets of challenges, maturity of prioritizing conflicting schedules and communicating decisions to coaches.

- "I loved high school soccer so much...You couldn't have paid me to NOT play high school soccer."

- The pressure of the "D1 or bust" mentality. Worrying about what others are doing/thinking. Hampton wishes she hadn't been so narrow-minded in the process.

- The harsh realities of D-1 soccer. EVERYONE was the best at their school or their club team.

- It's not just about loving the game. D-1 athletics is so much more than just the game you love. It's a 24/7 commitment.

- Hampton describes the feeling of knowing something was missing and being homesick. Once she tuned out the noise and listened to her heart... she found the place where she belonged.

- Advice for younger players going through the college recruitment process.

- And as always... The HOT TAKES were piping hot.

A Disappearing Middle Class Jan 08, 2025

Episode 29: Chris Dardano (Soccer Coach, Soccer Dad, Former Club Admin.)

- Chris Dardano brings a unique perspective from a variety of experiences in the youth soccer world.

- Early in the episode, Dardano answers a seemingly basic question with the complicated answer: "Where does the money go?"

- Dardano breaks down the trail of money in youth soccer and how the club/team fees are divided.

- We discuss the "disappearing middle class" in youth soccer, with lower quality rec leagues and resources being poured into them.

- Less recreational opportunities= More people turning to club. The result? A watered down product.

- In order for a quality "middle class" club/rec option to exist, quality coaches and facilities would need to be available. Ego drives quality coaches to want to coach the best of the best.

- Youth sports leagues aren't as localized as they once were. This has impacted facilities, travel, etc.

- These days it is getting harder and harder to get people to want to volunteer or fund raise at the grassroots level. People would rather just Venmo the $ than put in the work to make the product better.

- And perhaps Dardano's most interesting take: Youth sports has almost become the equivalent of a toll booth.

- As always... MORE HOT TAKES

2024 Youth $ports Wrapped Edition Jan 01, 2025

Episode 28: 2024 Youth $ports Wrapped Edition

- There's no guest this week as we pull a total youth sports move and hand out some TROPHIES AND AWARDS!

- A bit of a reflection upon the first 6 months of the podcast.

- Top 10 Most Listened to Episodes

- The most VIRAL moments

- Most touching moments

- Youth $ports Pod sweethearts... who are the listeners talking about the most?

- We RANK (everyone loves rankings!) the Top 10 Craziest youth sports...

- Teasers for future episodes and guests

- And... THE Hottest of the Hot Takes from the podcast series so far

... And so much more

The Times Are Changing Dec 26, 2024

Episode 27: Dr. Bob Dranoff (Former D-2 East Coast Conference Athletic Commissioner, Current graduate professor at St. John's University)

- Both at the youth sports AND collegiate level, sports are more commercialized than ever.

- A focus on making rules and regulations that only benefit the "elite of the elite."

- Trickle down effect of some new rule changes in college athletics with revenue sharing, NIL, scholarship limitations and roster changes. Will universities have to make tough decisions about cutting programs, how much funding to provide, etc? We haven't even seen the tip of the iceberg yet with some of this stuff...

- The trickle down effect. When one thing in a system changes, it inevitably effects everyone at every level in some way.

- If the scholarships and secondary sports at universities begin to get cut or receive less funding, does that impact sports at the youth level? Do people scale back because this financial pay off at the end of a scholarship no longer exists? Or do people just become even MORE competitive for those limited spots?

- College enrollment is down all over the country. How does this impact collegiate sports?

- Are some smaller schools using athletes to boost enrollment? Do parents and kids see through this, or are they just happy to keep playing their sport?

- Is it disingenuous for D3 schools to be using athletics to get kids in the door and paying $60,000 a year because they just want to keep playing their sport?

- Universities using new sports on the women's side, club side, etc. to boost enrollment. Provides more opportunities. Is that a bad thing for athletes?

- When we talk about D3 sports, in some ways it is a continuation of the "pay to play" model we see at the youth levels.

- Dranoff has spent a lot of time researching how we teach leadership to athletes. And the finding in many cases is... We don't. It's dependent on individual coaches and leadership styles.

- The alarming statistics around dropout rates in youth sports (70%!!!! of kids involved in team youth sports drop out by 13)

- We focus so much on individual improvement and success in sports at the expense of learning what it means to have a ROLE on a team.

- While many of us see the "problems" plaguing youth sports... our involvement with it is finite. Are people really willing to rock the boat, or change the system, when they have a kid who is only part of it for a short time?

- And a holiday HOT TAKE!

The $hip Has $ailed Dec 18, 2024

Episode 26: Aaron Flaker (Former President/Co-owner and Co-founder of JAM Brands, current Co-Owner of Athletx Sports Group)

- Flaker discusses his intro into the world of cheer (spoiler alert: He started out as a mascot!)

- The history behind how cheerleading has undergone a MASSIVE transformation through the years...

- Cheer has all of the markers of every other sport/competition, but the unique addition of aesthetics.

- The incredible story behind Flaker's first business venture, which grew into one of the largest cheer events in the world (Jam Fest turned Jam Brands)

- Digging into the nature of dance/cheer competitions and the seemingly 438439 different divisions at each competition. Do people even care if the competition is legit, or are they just happy to claim they are "national champions?"

- Smart people have recognized that the world of youth sports is a business. We don't get mad at other enterprises for capitalizing on the demand. Why do we get mad at those making money off youth sports?

- Are we running the risk of pricing parents out of youth sports?

- Maybe we will forever and always romanticize youth sports... But is the vision of what we remember it to be the reality today?

- And of course... MORE PIPING HOT TAKES

Patience Is A (Lost) Virtue Dec 11, 2024

Episode 25: Aaron Anderkin (Youth sports Dad/coach/former athlete)

- Can any other youth sports parents relate to 90% of their non-work life being consumed by sports? - Growing up in a small town, idolizing the "hometown heroes" - The challenge of doubling as both a youth sports parent AND a youth sports coach. How do you strike the correct balance? - The trickle down effect we are seeing of players, parents, coaches, etc. seeking IMMEDIATE GRATIFICATION. - Kids compete for a ring or trophy every weekend now... It used to be a year's long investment toward winning such big prizes. - FOMO drives so much of the vicious cycle of doing more, more, more in youth sports. - Real talk: Puberty is the great equalizer. All of the success at young ages does NOT equal success at the older ages. - As a coach or youth sports parent, the true measure of success is your kid answering YES to the following question: "Do you want to play again next year?" - Parental red flags (especially on social media!!!) - And of course... MORE HOT TAKES

Heart & Soul Dec 04, 2024

Episode 24: Philip Manga & players from the Box2Box Organization

- Box2Box is a non-profit organization in Lexington Ky that strives to empower the youth to seek community through sport, to develop identity relevance and belonging.

- The game of soccer opened up so many doors for Philip Manga in his life. When he came to the United States with his family from the Republic of Congo, he struggled to find his place in the community.

- Manga was able to find a connection to his community through the game of soccer.

- Even with an athletic scholarship to the University of Evansville, Manga struggled to keep up with the pace of the academics due to his Fluency in the English language.

- Now Manga and the Box2Box organization strive to provide opportunity for refugee children in the Lexington area, not only in the game of soccer, but with building a community and having a safe place to work on homework after school.

- Box2Box, much like the sport of soccer, is so much more than a game. It opens doors for children.

- Sports offer so much for so many kids, especially those who are longing to connect in a new country. Why not look for ways to make youth sports MORE accessible for young children?

- Hear from some of the young gentlemen who are part of the Box2Box Tumaini Academy. They share some of their struggles and success along the way.

- If you listen to this episode and can't see the beauty in the opportunity these young children are seeking and the avenue sports gives them to find it... Well, I'm not sure what else you need?

The Day The Music Died Nov 20, 2024

Episode 23: Charlie Ely (Medically retired college football player)

- What happens when sports has been a huge part of your identity your entire life, and then it gets stripped away because of injuries?

- What it's like to be an athlete who shows early potential, has great size and big dreams.

- Football is a grind. You almost never go through a game pain-free, but it's part of the mentality.

- Is the "no days off" mentality really better in the long-run than taking breaks?

- The pure joy of playing the sport you love with your teammates.

- The college football recruiting process. They love you... until you can no longer do anything for them. What happens when you suffer a severe injury right before heading to campus?

- The harsh reality of scholarships being pulled, promises being broken and an 18 year old being left to scramble to put the pieces together.

- The toll playing sports your whole life and having multiple injuries along the way can take on the body. But at the end of the day, would you trade in those experiences? Most athletes would probably say no...

- The life lessons amidst the pain of having to medically retire from the game you love.

- What happens next?

- HOT TAKES

A Big Fish In A Small Pond Nov 13, 2024

Episode 22: Jessie Weis (Mother of Top 100 Basketball Prospect, Gabe Weis)

- Jessie Weis is the mother of a Top 100, 4-star basketball prospect (Gabe Weis) from a small town in Kentucky

- Weis walks us through the natural progression of Gabe's development and the opportunities that came as a result of his hard work.

- Parents don't have to PUSH doors open for their children when it comes to youth sports. Let your child's hard work and ability open those doors.

- What it's like being the big fish in a small pond. High school sports are not always enough for high end athletes. Sometimes they need more.

- Weis details her son's (and family's) choice to attend a prep school, Montverde Academy for this junior and senior years of high school.

-The decision was met with scrutiny and judgement, but Gabe was willing to sacrifice the "normal high school experience" for the chance to play and practice with better players every day.

- Weis shares some details of the recruiting process for a Top 100 rated recruit.

- Every family's situation is different. You have to do what's best for YOU.

Uneven Playing Field Nov 06, 2024

Episode 21: Jeff Kellman (Inner city high school football coach, Milwaukee)

- Kellman has coached at both well-funded and poorly funded high schools in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The discrepancies between the 2 are massive...

- Coaches having to pay for basic equipment out of their own pockets vs. 65 million dollar athletic complexes

- Athletes seeing the lack of resources and opportunity provided to them.... How does that impact how they feel others value them? Do they internalize these feelings?

- Fundraising is supposed to be the great equalizer, right? But is it really when some families can just write the checks...

- Not having access to film. Such a simple, yet very massive disadvantage for a football program. Not being able to use it for recruiting purposes is also a huge disadvantage.

- Not only are there competitive disadvantages across youth sports, but also SAFETY disadvantages. Why should not having the same funding as other schools = unsafe environments for athletes?

- Some coaches have the luxury of massive coaching staffs who can focus on position groups, while others have to share duties among 2-3 coaches.

- Getting to coach football vs. coaching life

- Even with an uneven playing field, coaching kids who truly need the experience and the role models is rewarding.

- Youth sports can provide so many POSITIVES for young kids. Why are we making it LESS accessible?

A Dream That Wouldn't Die Oct 30, 2024

Episode 20: Roni Robinson (Former high school football/basketball standout who spent 4.5 years in jail before beginning his redemption story)

- Roni Robinson was once a candidate for Mr. Kentucky football and Mr. Kentucky basketball in the SAME season with letters from college coaches piling up in trash bags...

- Robinson was a hometown hero, with his whole life ahead of him, packing the stands on Friday nights in his small town of Frankfort, Ky.

- Robinson was set to play football AND basketball for the University of Tennessee... but there was just 1 problem: The ACT.

- When Robinson couldn't get the ACT score he needed, the D-1 dream faded and the reality of JUCO was staring him in the face. Robinson, who says his family was struggling to put food on the table and buy clothes, turned to the streets.

- One night changed the trajectory of Robinson's whole life. Facing a 10-20 year sentence for armed robbery, Robinson's football/basketball future seemed to die...

- Robinson outlines the next 4.5 years of his life spent in jail and how he used his love and skill in basketball and football to get through his sentence. "Basketball was my hustle."

- At 23 years old and 6 years out of organized sports... Robinson's dreams of playing college football and basketball seemed as unlikely as ever. The dream wouldn't die for Robinson and his life is now dedicated to his community and helping young kids learn from his own mistakes.

- A true story of the very real struggles young athletes face and how redemption, however unlikely, is still possible.

RANKINGS: Assessing or Obsessing? Oct 23, 2024

Episode 19: Scott Strode (Blue Chips Nation/Prep Hoops Scout)

- Scott Strode works as a basketball writer/scout for PrepHoops

- Strode sees himself as a connector/referral service between college coaches and players, helping both sides to streamline the recruiting and evaluation process.

- With many colleges operating on $500 recruiting budgets (No, seriously!), efficiency is crucial.

- We discuss the obsession with rankings, especially on the side of the parents and players. But guess who really does NOT care about rankings? THE COLLEGE COACHES. Not one time has Strode ever been asked where a player was ranked.

- What is the 1st question college coaches ask Strode? "Can they defend?"

- Youth sports has become a free market enterprise. No one is forcing parents to spend the $, but at the same time... Are those who stand to gain from their business financially being honest with parents?

- Are people more worried about the attention/social media posts when it comes to offers, commitments, camp invites, etc. than the substance behind it?

- Strode breaks down the current state of AAU basketball and the obsession with shoe circuits. Not necessarily enough talent to justify that many teams in small areas, traveling all over the country for these events.

- Real talk: Most kids attend college regionally. Most basketball coaches (outside of maybe D1) recruit regionally.

- And a serial killer comparison you simply were not ready for...

- The HOT TAKES are back! (Tucker/Strode 2028)

The Price WE Pay Oct 16, 2024

Episode 18: Kobe Johnson (Soccer parent/Former soccer player)

- A story of sacrifice and love in the world of youth sports.

- The 5-6 day weekly grind of being a high school athlete

- Sports can teach kids life lessons: Managing time, prioritizing, working with others, etc.

- When you sit down and actually add up all of the expenses (10K, 20K... etc...), is it really worth it? Would it have been better to just put that $ into a college fund?

- Some advice on the ID camps. You can't do them all. Pick wisely. Ask questions. Do your research.

- Coaches need to be honest with kids and parents, but kids and parents also have to want to hear it. Delusion is a powerful drug.

- Doesn't have to be a "D1 or bust" mentality. It's all about finding the right fit for YOU as a player. Don't worry about the clout of D-1.

- The sacrifices parents make in order to help their children reach their dreams...

- Kobe has no regrets. She takes the "we will make it work" mentality and believes this is what she signed up for in being a parent. It's worth it to her to be there for her daughter.

- What happens if after 10+ years of putting time, energy, money, travel, etc. into a sport... your kid decides they are finished. They don't want to play anymore. Then what?

- Sports can be a way for a parent to bond with their child. It can be a lifelong connection.

- Advice: Be REALISTIC with your child. Not everyone's child is Kobe Bryant or Sophia Smith. A little honesty won't kill them.

- Uh oh... We forgot the HOT TAKES.

Tipping Point Oct 09, 2024

Episode 17: Katie Filiatreau (Physical Therapist)

- The frequency in which Early Sports Specialization is happening these days is ALARMING! (Spoiler alert: It's NOT good for your kids' long-term future)

- Comparison: Using patient-first language vs. Using athlete-first language. Are we unintentionally putting pressure on our athletes when parents refer to themselves as "Soccer Moms" and "Baseball Dads?"

- The pressure to return to play as quickly as possible. But you only get 1 body, 2 knees, 2 shoulders... Long-term vs. Short-term

- TRUTH BOMB: Early specialization leads to higher risk of overuse injuries. Specialization does NOT equate to greater higher level success at the sport. Diversification is actually statistically better.

- With the crazy schedules these young athletes are having to keep... Do they really even LOVE the sport anymore?

- Parents help teach kids what they love. Do they really love the sport that much, or is it just the only thing you've allowed them to be exposed to?

- A mind boggling story of the parents of an 8 year-old holding their child back (flawless academically) so he would be more developed in high school for his baseball "career."

- Which begs the question... Should we be making major life/academic choices based on athletics? Especially at a young age?

- It's a problem if the youth sports system makes you feel behind if you haven't already started playing for a travel team by the age of 12.

- You can work harder than everyone else and the reality is... you still might not be as good as they are. And some of it comes down to... GENETICS!

- An increase in athletes presenting with chronic pain issues at dangerously young ages.

- Shift from injuries due to just overuse to injuries due to central nervous system problems (cell phone use, mental health issues, lack of sleep, social relationships, etc.)

- Straight from the mouth of a Physical Therapist: YOUR CHILD NEEDS AT LEAST A 3 MONTH BREAK from their sport, and ideally 6 weeks consecutively. (They can play other sports in that time).

- Beware of coaches, organizations, trainers, etc. who are telling you otherwise or who are telling you to specialize early.

- Will medical advice be the tipping point to spark change? Or will it be kids or young adults who have just finished up their youth sports career saying, "We aren't going to do this anymore."

- Advice: Don't sacrifice your athlete's long term future for a short term pay off that may never even come...

Keeping Up With the Joneses Oct 02, 2024

Episode 16: Tansy Coats (Parent of 3/Elementary school teacher)

- The struggles of juggling the weekly youth sports schedule of 3 children.

- Constantly dividing and conquering. "It takes a village."

- The inequity in opportunity to participate in sports based on family structure, support, transportation, financial ability, etc.

-Sports are supposed to be the great equalizer... but have we created yet another system of haves and have nots?

- Setting boundaries as a family such as only playing 1 sport per season.

- What about the "other siblings" who may not play sports? Where do they fit into the equation?

- Even at young ages, there's an over-emphasis on winning and a lack of emphasis on development.

- A comparison: Early tracking of children in education vs. Early tracking of children in youth sports.

- If we have trophies, rings, wrestling belts, "signing days," etc. for kids by the age of 10, what's left for them to experience later in life?

- TOO MUCH! We don't have to celebrate every small victory in life like it's the Super Bowl

- Are we really doing all of the "extra" for a social media post?

- And of course... MORE HOT TAKES!

Halftime Recap Sep 25, 2024

Episode 15: Jordan Parker (Our 1st repeat guest)

- The Youth $ports Podcast is officially 15 episodes old! We've talked about a LOT of topics.

- This episode serves as a bit of a recap/halftime episode, where we discuss some of the underlying themes and topics of the podcast so far.

- We discuss the biggest takeaways from Episodes 1-14.

- Jordan turns the questions in Ally's direction to ask some questions about the logistics of the podcast and reflections on the process.

- THEMES: Maybe college scholarships being the "end goal" is part of the problem, FOMO, early specialization, traveling at the expense of development, youth sports being used as a status symbol, identity being too wrapped up in sports, etc.

- Parker does not hold back in dropping some truth bombs that need to be heard.

- A Tom Hanks hot take for the ages!

Changing the Game Sep 18, 2024

Episode 14: Katherine Southerland (Founder of a free, all-girls Galaxy Basketball League)

- Southerland started a COMPLETELY FREE basketball organization for K-5 girls only in Louisville Kentucky (Galaxy Basketball Incorporated).

- Lack of opportunities for young girls who want to play basketball.

- Co-ed teams exist, but sometimes only 2 girls play at a time.

- Basketball SHOULD be one of the MOST accessible sports, but AAU is making it so expensive.

- Are some AAU programs just making money off of families, playing in too many games/tournaments/showcases at the expense of development?

- People just wanting to be able to say “My kid plays AAU,” yet they can’t hit a right-handed layup.

- Investing money in youth sports is really investing in your community’s future.

- The program was selected as 1 of 50 non-profits all over the United States (1 of 5 girls basketball related programs) to receive the 2024 Sports 4 Life grant. The Women’s Sports Foundation 4 Life program, co-founded by WSF and ESPN in 2014 and supported by the likes of WNBA star Sue Bird, utilizes the power of sport to build a solid foundation for Black, African-American, Hispanic and Native American girls to thrive on and off the field of play.

- This grant allows the 2024 season for Galaxy basketball to be FULLY FUNDED

A Broken Record Sep 11, 2024

Episode 13 Guest: Mallory Shake (Former Division 1 Swimmer)

- Mallory tells the story of what it’s like to be identified at a very young age as being exceptional at a sport (by breaking an Olympic swimmer’s previously held record at 8 years old)

- The tug of war playing 2 sports: 1 that you play because you’re really good at it and 1 that you play because you love it.

- Should you choose the sport you’re good at or the sport you love? How long can you do both?

- The pressure of prioritizing the sport you’re told you are best at.

- Maybe playing a 2nd sport that you are less serious about is a good breath of fresh air.

- The major differences between individual sports vs. team sports

- Swimmers are just a different breed…

- “I never had a multi-sport athlete who wasn’t one of the best players on my team.”

- Tunnel vision: Why has playing a sport in college become the end all be all of youth sports? Should it really be the light at the end of the tunnel?

- Learning to identify who you are outside of sports when that’s all you’ve done your whole life.

- The REALITY of playing a Division 1 sport: It’s not always pretty.

- The dream isn’t always the dream…The Sophomore slump. Anxiety, lack of sleep, depression, injuries, unbalanced life, long road trips, eating disorders, etc.

- The struggles, while hard in the moment, help mold you into the person you become as an adult.

- MORE HOT TAKES (Watch out Disney Adults and Teachers)

A Conversation With My Dad Sep 04, 2024

Episode 12 Guest: Cy Tucker (7-time state champion, Hall of Fame coach, my Dad)

- The blessing of being able to sit down and have a conversation recorded with my Dad is not lost on me… (He also just so happens to be a 7 time state champion and Hall of Fame girls soccer coach).

- Humble beginnings. Learning the game just by playing, without lots of structure and outside influence.

- The unique bond soccer helped create between a father and daughter.

- Coaching without an ego. Doing whatever it takes to win, including an offside trap story for the ages.

- The secret sauce behind winning 7 state titles: CULTURE, CULTURE and more CULTURE

- Reflecting on some funny memories, touching moments and unforgettable experiences as a coach for over 40 years

- The gift of being able to see potential and value in players/people where others don’t.

- Be a STAR IN YOUR ROLE.

- HOT TAKE: The worst question in all of youth sports: “What can I do to get more playing time?” We explain why this common, simple question can be so frustrating and what the better question might be for a player to ask a coach.

Hindsight is 20/20, But the Pressure is 100 Aug 28, 2024

Episode 11 Guest: Jennifer Smith (Retired youth soccer parent)

- Now that her kids are older, Jennifer Smith reflects back on her time as a youth sports soccer parent. Hindsight is 20/20, but she would have done a lot of things differently...

- Non-sports parents on the outside looking in saying... "Are you crazy?" (Like when you reschedule a flight to Italy with your family that has been planned for years for a soccer tournament...For an extra $2,000)

- Whatever it takes not to miss out. Swipe the credit card. Figure it out later.

- Because of all of the money people are spending on youth sports, the result matter THAT much more.

- The pressure of pay to play on coaches when it comes to playing time decisions

- Extra training: The "secret starter training"

- The perpetual fear of falling behind (even if it means overuse injuries)

- Walking a tight rope financially every month, taking on a 2nd job, hoping you make ends meet

- Relief that the 1st college bill is actually CHEAPER than the Youth sports bill

- If you don't play club sports, it's hard to even make a high school team these days

- And a comparison for the ages: Youth sports to Multi-Level Marketing Pyramid Schemes

- AND MORE HOT TAKES!

Coach Speak Aug 21, 2024

Episode 10 Guest: Sara Martin (Former volleyball coach)

- Hear stories from a coach who fell in and out of love with coaching...

- We are all TOO ACCESSIBLE these days. Cell phones make it instant gratification/communication. Remember phone trees?

- The golden years of coaching: Before it gets too serious and it's still about the love of the game.

- Club sports aren't for the best players anymore, they are for everyone.

- Doing what's "best for the team" is harder and harder to get players AND parents to buy into.

- Everyone is on board for what's best for the team until it impacts THEM.

- "Parent Goggles"

- The unique challenges that women coaches face: Family, sacrifices, stereotypes, being treated differently than their male counterparts, etc.

- "For male coaches winning is the expectation. For female coaches, winning is not enough."

- 98% of parents are supportive. The 2% can drive coaches away from the profession.

Officially A Problem Aug 14, 2024

Episode 9 Guest: Mike Webster (Basketball Official/Referee)

- Everyone loves their youth sports, but without refs... There IS no youth sports.

- Referee abuse is a real issue and it's causing MAJOR ripple effects with shortages nationwide, across all sports.

- Losing more #s in officiating than we are gaining. Not a sustainable model.

- Quality officiating is declining because there's no incentive to improve. Even bad officials HAVE to get games because of low #s.

- As coaches, players, fans... you want to show up to a game and trust that you are getting quality officials.

- If you're yelling at officials, you aren't coaching your team.

- If something doesn't change with ref shortages, it won't be a pretty picture. And rural areas will be impacted the most disproportionately.

- Will the shortage actually impact/change behavior toward refs?

- What causes rational people to act so crazy toward refs?

- The average person doesn't know nearly as much about a "call" as they think they do...

"I'll Never Be THAT Parent..." Aug 07, 2024

Episode 8: Linda Flanagan (Author/Researcher, Take Back the Game)

- Author of Take Back the Game: How Money and Mania are Ruining Kids' Sports-- And Why it Matters

- Sports used to have a different, less central role in family life

- Obesity problems in America... sports are linked to better outcomes in life. So why are we making them more expensive and LESS accessible?

- Pay to play is shutting out potentially great players.

- 3 major cultural shifts that have caused drastic changes in youth sports: Decline in public funds/private enterprises capitalizing, OBSESSION with our kids, colleges tying athletic performance to admissions.

- It's dangerous when sports become your identity, or even worse... when your child's sport becomes your identity as a parent.

- "Empty Nest Coaches"... Yes, this is a real thing

- Are adults taking care of themselves and their own physical and mental well-being?

College Recruiting: Myths and Misconceptions Jul 31, 2024

Episode 7: Trip Rogers (Centre College Women's Soccer Associate Head Coach)

- Hear the truth about recruiting Myths and Misconceptions from a college coach

- There is NO RETURN on investment when it comes to club/travel sports. I repeat, there is no such thing as a return on investment.

- No one is earning a scholarship at 10, 11, 12 years old... College coaches do not care where you're traveling at that age. Save your $$$

- College coaches salivate over multi-sport athletes

- Do colleges bear some responsibility for the youth sports machine if they are only recruiting at the big/expensive showcase events where only certain clubs have access?

- Did you know... Most people go to college regionally? Only 2% go further than 5-6 hours away.

- Not all scholarships are created equal. Most people are NOT getting full rides.

- Recruiting RED FLAGS: Poor body language, social media habits and parental dialogue.

- ID Camp advice

- Surviving college athletics sets you up for success in life/career

- HOT TAKES are back!

Hello From the Other Side Jul 24, 2024

Episode 6: Matt Bomeisl (A3 Baseball Academy Owner/Director)

- A3 Academy: An alternative path for high school age athletes, designed to give an edge to serious athletes to prepare them for college/professional baseball.

- Travel sports are emphasizing creating "mercenary teams" that meet up to play in showcases, but does this come at the expense of development?

- American sports mentality vs. other countries: More distractions, less unstructured play

- Are these academies the future of high level sports? And if so, are kids missing out on a more well-rounded high school experience?

- Landing on the right side of history with alternative paths. Don't wind up like Bishop Sycamore...

- Are we teetering in a territory where student-athletes are now becoming athlete-students?

- There's nothing wrong with pushing your kids to greatness

The Value of High School Sports Jul 17, 2024

Episode 5: Nate Valentine (North Laurel HS Basketball Coach, home of Reed Sheppard)

- High school basketball coach of Reed Sheppard (Former Kentucky men's basketball player and 3rd pick in the NBA draft) sheds light on the story of a kid who decided to stay home and play for his hometown team.

- The value of playing for your community

- If you're good, they'll find you. More pathways than ever exist today...

- Valuable lessons can be learned from high school sports and your role within a team

- Are we turning teenagers into professionals too soon with things like NIL, transferring at will, bypassing traditional high school programs, etc.?

- If high school basketball is good enough for Reed Sheppard... it's good enough for "Little Johnny"

- 3 of the top 4 NBA draft picks in 2024 who played college basketball also played high school basketball in their hometown.

Blueprint Jul 10, 2024

Episode 4 Guest: Betsy Huckaby (Current collegiate athlete, Univ. of Louisville)

- Slow and steady wins the race: A blueprint for what youth sports CAN look like... A late bloomer turned Division 1 athlete (University of Louisville)

- The value of growing up as a multi-sport athlete and being a good teammate.

- How adversity can change the trajectory of an athlete's career.

- Not everyone has the same drive... and that's okay.

- The quandary of athletes being encouraged to skip out on high school sports

- Does Division 1 college athletics feel more like a job or can you still find joy?

- More HOT TAKES

Maybe Less Is More Jul 03, 2024

Episode 3 Guest: Drew Watts (Performance Coach)

- We broach the topic no one wants to talk about... Injuries

-The impact of over-scheduling at a young age

- Is the emphasis on GAMES, GAMES and more GAMES coming at the cost of free play, creativity and recovery?

- At some point, will level headed adults start to say no?

- A concerning increase in overuse injuries

- Variety isn't a bad thing and recovery time is important

- The ACL epidemic

Gaslit Generation Jun 26, 2024

Episode 2 Guest: Katie Wells (Youth sports parent)

- Has the current generation of youth sports parents been gaslit as the "participation trophy generation" and as a result, raised exceptional overachievers?

- Analogizing youth sports to the "Promposal"

- Have we replaced participation trophies with participation national champions?

- A lack of quality recreation leagues

- An alarming statistic about the # of athletes who quit by high school

- Advice for the all important post-game car ride

- More HOT TAKES

2 Fast 2 Serious Jun 19, 2024

Episode 1 Guest: Jordan Parker (Youth soccer coach)

-Has youth sports broken you?

- The commitment (both time and money) to youth sports is happening faster than ever and at a younger age than ever. And a Double Dutch analogy for the ages.

- Expectations vs. Reality. If the parents are the customer, are we giving them what they want?

- Maybe we are all taking ourselves a little too seriously...

- Youth sports parents and their presence on social media.

- Hot Takes