The hidden costs parents face when raising a young athlete

One in six parents of kids who play sports believe they’re raising the next pro athlete, according to new research.A survey of 4,150 respondents, split between athletes, parents, and coaches of youth athletes, looked at sentiments around what sports look like right now.Seventy-two percent think that youth sports today feel more professional than recreational, with coaches experiencing this boost in intensity firsthand (85%).With all of the work put in, two-thirds of parents think their child is above average (68%) — some even claiming that their child is destined for sports stardom (17%).Conducted by Talker Research for BSN SPORTS, the survey found that all things considered, 92% would encourage young athletes to pursue sports, especially coaches (96%) and athletes (94%).The average athlete (adult who is part of a sports club) surveyed spends nine hours a week on their sport, with eight in 10 parents agreeing that their child’s sports club has even become a second home for them.From going to games, practice, and prepping for matches, parents estimate that they’re involved with 72% of their child’s experience — about eight hours a week.More than a quarter said their child needs them nearly, if not, every step of the way (27%).Time isn’t the only investment into these sports: The average athlete needs new equipment three times a year, spending an annual total of $313, and one in nine spend upwards of $500.For 64%, jerseys and gear are worth the financial and emotional investment because they represent pride and progress.Nine in 10 see the time and money spent on sports as an investment into the player’s future (88%), with coaches (96%) and parents (91%) especially understanding this value.“The gear athletes wear isn’t just about performance, it’s about identity and pride,” said Brian Fleming, senior vice president and general manager of club and select at BSN SPORTS.“According to our findings, nine in 10 believe the time and money spent on s...