In recent years, the youth sports industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience, even in the face of global pandemics and economic downturns. This phenomenon has led many to describe youth sports as “recession-proof” or “economy-proof.” Let’s explore the reasons behind this resilience and examine some compelling examples that showcase the strength of the youth sports industry.
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The Power of Parental Priorities
One of the primary factors contributing to the recession-proof nature of youth sports is parents’ unwavering commitment to their children’s athletic pursuits. Families are increasingly willing to make sacrifices in other areas of their lives to ensure their children can continue participating in sports. This prioritization stems from the recognition of the numerous benefits that youth sports provide, including:
- Physical and mental well-being
- Development of teamwork and leadership skills
- Creation of lifelong memories and friendships
- Potential for college scholarships or professional sports careers
As a result, parents are more likely to cut back on expenses like dining out, vacations, or gym memberships before limiting their children’s involvement in sports.
Economic Impact and Growth
The youth sports industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with projections indicating continued expansion:
- The amount being spent on youth sports ($40 billion) has now doubled the amount of money flowing through the NFL.
- Experts predict the industry will nearly triple to $75 billion by 2026.
- Youth sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments in sports and recreation.
This growth has led to substantial investments in youth sports facilities and infrastructure, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that supports local economies.
Case Studies: Resilient Youth Sports Facilities
Rocky Top Sports World (Gatlinburg, Tennessee)
This facility demonstrated remarkable resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite initial challenges, it quickly adapted by implementing safety protocols and hosting modified events. As a result, Rocky Top Sports World continued to generate significant economic impact for the local community, even during uncertain times. In fact, the facility reported a record-breaking economic impact of $55.6 million in 2022.
Rocky Mount Event Center (Rocky Mount, North Carolina)
Built during a period of economic decline in the mid-2010s, this facility has proven its worth by exceeding initial projections. In 2022, it generated $14.9 million in economic impact, showcasing its ability to thrive even in challenging economic conditions. The center’s success has spurred downtown redevelopment and economic growth in the area, including the redevelopment of the historic Rocky Mount Mills.
Sand Mountain Park & Amphitheater (Albertville, Alabama)
This facility opened in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the circumstances, it has become a major economic driver for the region. The park’s diverse offerings, including sports facilities and an amphitheater, have allowed it to adapt to changing conditions and continue attracting visitors, contributing significantly to the local economy. In its first full year of operation (October 2021 to September 2022), the facility generated $23.2 million in economic impact. Additionally, the park has led to a wave of new construction in the area, including Albertville’s first hotels.
The Ripple Effect on Local Economies
Youth sports facilities and events have a profound impact on local economies, contributing to various sectors:
- Reduced healthcare costs (up to $28 billion per year) due to improved physical and mental well-being
- Increased demand for hospitality, real estate, and dining services
- Strengthened local labor markets
- Boost to sports-related businesses, including equipment manufacturers and retailers
Adapting to Economic Challenges
The youth sports industry has demonstrated its ability to weather various economic challenges:
- During the 2008-2009 recession, youth sports tourism was the only travel sector not to experience a decline.
- The industry also contributed to the recovery of the travel and tourism industry after the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Sustainable Investment
The economy-proof nature of youth sports makes it an attractive investment for both private developers and municipalities. As Mary Fugere, who runs Hampton’s Convention and Visitor Bureau, notes, “Youth sports are nearly economy proof. It is a market segment that has stood the test of sequestration, COVID, all sorts of economical downturns.”
By investing in youth sports facilities and events, communities can create a sustainable source of economic activity that remains strong even when other sectors falter. The combination of parental dedication, economic impact, and the inherent benefits of youth sports participation ensures that this industry will continue to thrive, providing value to athletes, families, and local economies for years to come.
