Playing sport at a competitive level is significantly more expensive that children’s’ participation at a club level. As case-in-point is my 11-year-old friend who, in the past year has made District, Regional and State teams, and competed at State and National Championships in several sports. The only funding available for children who are ineligible for the sport voucher system, is $400 for 12 years and over. To be eligible for funding under the program guidelines, an athlete must be aged between 12 – 18 years old in the same calendar year as the nominated championships. However, as my young high achieving friend plays at Nationals as an 11-year-old, they are not eligible for funding! The list of prohibitive costs is long, and it comes in the form of fuel, uniforms, equipment, accommodation, flights, car hire. This young athlete works with a physiotherapist and hopes to work with a nutritionist to manage their physical and mental energy effectively. She is actively seeking sponsorship and support even at this young age, her family are seeking school scholarships to assist with fees.
Lessons from the Beijing 2008 Olympics show that finding ways to reduce costs without compromising the quality of sports program is key to making competitive sports more affordable. The Emerging Athlete Pathways subsidy, for instance, provides funding to selected athletes, coaches, and officials from 10 to 18 years-of-age ($500-$800) to help alleviate the costs associated with attending state, national or international events.
Among other key pillars to success in sport, strategies such as working with our communities, seeking out sponsorship opportunities, and optimising resources, could make competitive sports more accessible to all.
Prioritising sports for children and finding ways to make it accessible, means families can help their children develop a lifelong love of physical activity and the numerous benefits it provides. We all know increasing kids’ sport participation can have numerous positive effects on their physical health, mental health, social skills, academic performance, and future opportunities. It can also benefit the sports industry and the economy by promoting interest in sports and providing opportunities for growth and development.