High school athletics are often seen as a budget-friendly option for youth sports. But is that really the case?
Aaliyah Heureaux is gearing up for her final season as a soccer player for Northwestern High School in Hyattsville, Maryland. The dedicated defender has already bought her cleats, socks, and training gear, ready to start practice. However, some of her teammates struggle to afford the necessary equipment.
Heureaux recalls a past season when she allowed other goalkeepers to use her gloves during a match because the school’s provided gloves were outdated and lacked padding. “We know many players can’t afford top-quality gear like others can,” Heureaux said.
As student-athletes in the D.C. region prepare for the fall season, some families face financial challenges that may prevent their children from participating. The high cost of competitive youth sports is pushing many to consider public school athletics as a more affordable option. Yet, these programs also come with hidden costs.
A 2022 survey by the Aspen Institute found that the average household spends $883 annually on a child’s primary sport. This represents a 6% decrease from pre-pandemic costs but might still be misleading due to the income range of survey participants. “Some parents are spending thousands of dollars a year,” said Jon Solomon from the Aspen Institute. “This is especially true in travel sports where families often bear the brunt of the costs.”
Soccer, baseball, volleyball, and ice hockey are among the most expensive sports due to coach salaries and facility fees. In contrast, football is often seen as more affordable because its costs are less likely to fall on families.
Public school sports can be a more cost-effective option, as they typically provide facilities, transportation, and standard uniforms. However, families might still encounter expenses related to travel, equipment, and additional uniforms.
Heureaux and her family search for discounts on brand-name items. She found Adidas cleats at a bargain and learned that quality gear doesn’t have to be expensive. “I bought a pair of Adidas Predators for $15,” she said. “It’s about finding deals and not spending a fortune.”
Some parents choose travel or club teams with hopes of securing college scholarships or professional contracts for their children. These teams offer top-notch coaching but come with hefty fees and travel costs.
Solomon highlighted that money and resources significantly impact whether kids can participate in sports and the quality of their experience. “Money influences not only whether kids play but also the quality of their experience,” he said.
To address these challenges, some state and local governments are taking action. Fairfax County, Virginia, has formed an athletic council to improve access to sports programs. Montgomery County, Maryland, has partnered with Under Armour and the Baltimore Ravens to introduce girls flag football in high schools this fall.
Solomon noted that such programs are a step in the right direction but require ongoing investment to ensure quality. “Programs must be high quality to keep participants engaged,” he said.
Parent groups within teams also help by sharing resources and organizing carpools to reduce travel expenses. Susanna Heureaux, Aaliyah’s mother, noted that their high school and academy teams have a supportive network of parents. “If a teammate needs gear, we’ll figure it out and help them,” Susanna said.
Solomon advised parents to discuss their child’s goals in sports. If the aim is enjoyment, expensive gear might not be necessary. For those with college aspirations, exploring financial aid opportunities from organizations like Every Kid Sports could be beneficial.
For Aaliyah, focusing on her performance rather than the cost of her gear is key. “It’s not the cleats or uniform that makes the game,” she said. “It’s you as a player. Hard work and dedication matter more than luxury items.”
