Six reasons why American Youth are not playing football anymore
I had to go to the drawing board for this, because I am not sure why our youth are not signing up for sports anymore. When I was a kid growing up I played every sport I could. I remember playing baseball, football, basketball, ice hockey, lacrosse, volleyball, track and field, shoot I even played soccer. I played as many sports as I could as a child, and now that I am helping with a high school, I am noticing these kids do not want to play any sport anymore, let alone football.
I watched the United States get completely manhandled and destroyed in an American Football Tournament this past weekend, and it hurt my feelings. The USA lost to both Japan and Austria not even getting a medal in the sport they created. It was the IFAF World Junior Championship, which is a U20 tournament. It was so bad, so I figured I would put six reasons together on why our youth are not choosing football anymore.
My six key factors which contribute to the declining participation of youth in football in the United States:
- Concerns about Safety: Increased awareness of the risks of concussions and other injuries associated with football has led to parents and children choosing alternative sports or activities perceived as safer.
- Specialization in Sports: Many young athletes are specializing in one sport earlier, often choosing sports perceived as safer or offering better opportunities for scholarships and future careers.
- Alternative Activities: There’s a growing variety of activities available to youth, including esports, which compete for their time and interest.
- Laziness: Kids are not willing to play outside anymore. You rarely see kids in the neighborhood playing outside. They are always on their phones.
- VIDEO GAMES: Football has been replaced by Call of Duty, who are we kidding these kids do not want to get out of the house anymore.
- Media Coverage and Perception: Negative media coverage regarding injuries and scandals in football may deter participation among parents and children.
These factors together have contributed to a decline in youth participation in football over recent years. Do you agree with my six factors? Let me know
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