Youth sports ingrain the importance of character, teamwork, leadership, and purpose in today’s children. They give kids the opportunity to build friendships and learn how to maintain a healthy, happy lifestyle. The lack of access to children’s athletic organizations can impact kids and their healthy development.
The Orlando Orthopaedic Center Foundation, the Give Kids Sports Program, and notable leaders in Central Florida sponsored a town hall discussion via FM 96.9 on Oct. 23 from 5-6 p.m. to discuss the negative effects of unequal accessibility in youth sports. Unfortunately, economic disparities prevent many kids from being able to join these organizations.
Experts in athleticism and leadership were panelists in the live broadcast intended to raise awareness on this issue and promote ideas on how to address it. They hope to make youth sports more inclusive and financially accessible to all children.
“All kids should be able to participate in any type of sport they want, regardless of their background. The Give Kids Sports Town Hall raised awareness about what happens when children don’t get equal access to youth sports, so our community leaders can work together to solve these problems,” said Orlando Orthopaedic Center Foundation president, Randy S. Schwartzberg, M.D.
The panel consisted of a multitude of experts and leaders from the area. Among the speakers were the following:
- Host Brandon Kravitz (The Game) of FM 96.9
- Orange County School Board Chair Teresa Jacobs
- Seminole County Commissioner Bob Dallari
- Former Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy
- Stetson University Basketball head coach Donnie Jones
- Orlando Orthopaedic Center Foundation president Randy S. Schwartzberg
The panelists discussed the side effects of youth sports that many families simply cannot afford. Find the panel’s recording online to learn about the excluding practices of youth sports and become part of the effort to rectify it; make children’s athletic programs available to all kids.
“Economic barriers are leaving too many of our children and teens sidelined and not able to enjoy the benefits of youth sports programs,” said Dr. Schwartzberg. “We invite the public to listen to this town hall discussion to see how each of us can make a difference to help our children.”
