Diversity and Demographics of American Youth Sports

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Ohio University’s Online Masters in Coaching Education created an infographic to illustrate Diversity and Demographics of American Youth Sports.

Unfortunately, only 15% of male youth athletes and 17% of female youth athletes are Latino.

Not only are youth sports associated with physical activity and reduced obesity, but student athletes are more likely to graduate than non-athletes; they have a higher average GPA than non-athletes; they are absent from school fewer days per year than non-athletes; and they have fewer discipline problems.

Disparities in participation in youth sports are due to inequities in access to youth sports across various demographic groups.  For example, children who live in urban areas often have fewer opportunities for organized sports.  Latino kid’s in particular have limited access to physical activity opportunities.

Inequities in Latino kid’s access to and participation in youth sports are associated with disparities in obesity, health, graduation rates, academic achievement, and absenteeism.  In order to reduce such disparities, parents, schools, and communities need to ensure that all kids have access to organized sports.

Learn about Diversity and Demographics of American Youth Sports here.

Learn about one community that increased kids access to futsal courts here.