The Youth Travel Sports Dilemma: Are We Protecting or Pushing Too Hard?

Youth sports are supposed to be about growth, teamwork, and passion—but somewhere along the way, they became about year-round competition, high-pressure travel teams, and the fear of falling behind.

At The GRL Initiative, we’re asking the tough questions:
✔ Are kids playing too much, too soon?
✔ Is the goal of youth sports about scholarships or joy?
✔ How do we protect kids from burnout while keeping them engaged?

This space is for parents, coaches, and athletes who want to rethink the way we approach sports—with a focus on balance, mental health, and long-term love for the game.

Because at the end of the day, sports should add to a child’s life, not consume it.