Parks and recreation is one of the largest providers of youth sports in the nation, reaching more than 40 million youth annually. Professionals in this field are catalysts for advancing equity in youth sports in communities nationwide, offering affordable, fun, inclusive and multisport options that level the playing field and promote positive youth development. Young people who participate in youth sports reap a number of immediate and long-term benefits, from enhanced mental and physical health to improved academic performance and career success. However, not all children participate in youth sports at equal measure.

To better understand the gaps in and opportunities for advancing youth sports equity through parks and recreation, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) partnered with Nike to launch the Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation Survey. This report includes findings from that survey, along with insights into the current state of youth sports delivery through parks and recreation, and reflections on the potential for advancing strategies that level the playing field and promote positive youth development.

Read the Report