COVID-19 and Youth Sports: Psychological, Developmental, and Economic Impacts

Abstract

COVID-19 has dramatically altered and disrupted sport in unprecedented ways, and youth sports is one sector that has been profoundly impacted. In the United States, the youth sports industry generates $19 billion dollars annually, while youth sport tourism is estimated at $9 billion annually. With youth sports at a standstill, the effect on the youth sports infrastructure is significant. The purpose of this scholarly commentary was to discuss the psychological, developmental, and economic fallout from the stoppage of youth sports that has touched millions of participants, their families, and a substantial youth sports structural system. This work also addresses the potential restructuring of youth sport megacomplexes, cascading effects of canceled seasons, likely sponsorship losses, and potential growing socioeconomic divide in participation that could result from the pandemic. Thus, there is still much uncertainty about the future of youth sport participation and subsequent adjustments that may impact established participation and consumption norms.

A national COVID-19 quarantine survey and its impact on the Italian sports community: Implications and recommendations

“…Schools as well as recreational, cultural, and sports centers were closed; sporting events and gathering in public spaces were forbidden [ 2 ]. This environment led to a thorough modification of sports organizations with unprecedented measures [ 3 ].…”

“…The unpaid work of women increased, especially during this period [ 12 ]. Regarding young or amateur athletes, the loss of their usual sports routines could increase the probability of their dropping out, which is caused by the additional cascading of economic effects and financial loss charged to amateur associations and related managers [ 3 ]. This unprecedented crisis will involve families who may be in short supply and may have not money or time to provide athletic opportunities for their children once everything gets back to normal [ 3 ].…”

“…Regarding young or amateur athletes, the loss of their usual sports routines could increase the probability of their dropping out, which is caused by the additional cascading of economic effects and financial loss charged to amateur associations and related managers [ 3 ]. This unprecedented crisis will involve families who may be in short supply and may have not money or time to provide athletic opportunities for their children once everything gets back to normal [ 3 ]. The closure of gyms and fitness centers have forced the modification of exercise programs and the habits of amateur fitness athletes; they have to train at home using minimal gym and/or fitness equipment without supervision by staff or coaches [ 13 ].…”

“…With entrepreneurial thinking, they have to guarantee the sports associations’ “economic survival,” soliciting a progressive implementation of working from home, which allows social distancing. Furthermore, there is the organizing of online fitness events or conferences and encouraging outdoor activities [ 3 ]. Finally, there is the damage to the sports industry and its affiliated markets caused by the suspension of tournaments and competitions (upstream and downstream) [ 16 , 17 ].…”

Virtual Sport-Based Positive Youth Development During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…The global COVID-19 pandemic has influenced children’s ability to engage in sport in schools and communities (Bachman, 2020 ; Dunton et al, 2020 ; Sanderson & Brown, 2020 ; The Aspen Institute, 2020 ). Barriers such as transportation, space, time, costs, availability, social distancing policies, and family hardships have changed the landscape for participation and engagement in sports.…”