GREEN BAY, Wis. — The Green Bay Packers selected quarterback Jordan Love as the team’s nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, which recognizes NFL players who excel on the field while demonstrating a commitment to making a positive impact beyond the game.

Love, who entered the league in 2020, launched his foundation in May 2024 — Hands of 10ve. His foundation focuses on empowering children, regardless of their backgrounds, to participate in sports while raising awareness about mental health. It also emphasizes fostering stronger connections between law enforcement and communities.

Through 10ve for Cleats, a Hands of 10ve initiative, Love has donated cleats to a youth sports team for every touchdown scored during the season. This initiative will even expand to Bakersfield, Calif., Love’s hometown.

“We are pleased to name Jordan Love as our club winner for the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award,” said Packers President and CEO Ed Policy. “It’s been a privilege to watch him grow as a leader during his time with the Packers, both in the locker room and in the community. We have been proud to support his dedication to giving back.”

Love and the 32 club winners will wear a special Walter NFL Man of the Year helmet through the end of the season.

All club winners will be recognized in the week leading up to Super Bowl LX, and the national winner of the 2025 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year will be announced during NFL Honors, a primetime awards special set to air on Feb. 5.

For more information about the award, please visit NFL.com/ManOfTheYear.

Dick’s Sporting Goods executives shared key details about the company’s strategic playbook for 2026 at this week’s Morgan Stanley Global Consumer & Retail Conference in New York. Lauren Hobart, president and CEO of Dick’s Sporting Goods, Ed Stack, executive chairman, and Navdeep Gupta, executive VP and CFO shared details on Wednesday about the Foot Locker turnaround since acquiring it earlier this year, how Dick’s plans to expand its retail footprint and

Dick’s Foot Locker Turnaround Plans

Stack elaborated on his recent comments about the Foot Locker acquisition on Dick’s Sporting Goods’ third-quarter earnings call, repeating that Foot Locker had strayed from “retail 101” in recent years.

“The most misunderstood aspect of this is how simple this turnaround is — not that it’s not hard work, but we know exactly what we need to do,” Stack said. “We know exactly how we need to do it. We know exactly who’s going to do it. We know exactly who’s going to partner with us on it,” he said, adding that major brand partners are eager to see a “stable, growing, viable, predictable Foot Locker.”

The immediate focus is on “cleaning out the garage,” clearing old inventory in the fourth quarter to set the stage for a fresh start in 2026. The new management team, led by former Nike executive Anne Freeman, will have its first major impact on product assortment during the back-to-school season next year, which is when the company expects to see progress.

“Some people have asked, ‘so why not better in Q1 and Q2?’  Well, we hope it’s going to be better in Q1 and Q2, but our team did not buy the product for Q1 and Q2,” Stack said. “The product that’s going to be coming in was bought by a previous management team. Most of them are not here any longer. And the first time that we were able to touch and build the assortment for what Foot Locker is going to look like is in the back-to-school time.”

To test its new approach, Dick’s is bringing its “operational excellence” to Foot Locker, with a focus on 11 Foot Locker stores, Hobart said. The new layout features roughly 30% fewer SKUs and a more organized presentation that highlights key franchises. Apparel has also been reintroduced, and early results are promising. “We see some real green shoots that we’re really excited about,” Stack said.

Pre-COVID, Foot Locker’s international business was very profitable, Stack said. But in recent years, the international side lost significance as the EMEA reporting structure shifted, moving from operating independently to reporting to a counterpart in the U.S. Matthew Barnes, the former CEO of Aldi grocery in the U.K., will now run the European business. So far, the North America turnaround is moving more quickly than EMEA, but Europe is not far behind, Stack said.

House of Sport Tweaks and Retail Expansion

While Hobart couldn’t share details about Black Friday results, she said Dick’s is enthusiastic about the holiday season to come.

The House of Sport concept remains a central pillar of Dick’s growth strategy, with a target of opening 75 to 100 of the large-format, experiential stores. These locations have allowed Dick’s to secure prime real estate in high-performing malls that were previously inaccessible, Stack said.

The concept is also a testing ground for new ideas. For example, the success of a collectibles and trading card section, in partnership with Fanatics, is being rolled out to other stores. The stores are also proving to be an effective entry point for new brand partners like Gymshark, which is currently in 12 House of Sport locations. Hobart explained that the format allows new brands to “get comfortable with us, they build the trust, and we can continue to roll.”

The learnings from House of Sport are being applied to more traditional “Field House” stores, creating a flywheel of innovation across the company’s retail footprint.

A Different Approach to Business

Throughout the discussion, the executives stressed that Dick’s current success is a result of doing things differently than it had in the past. This transformation has been guided by four key pillars: elevating the athlete (customer) experience, focusing on the teammate experience, building the brand, and delivering differentiated products.

“Our vision is to be the best sports company in the world,” Hobart said. This broader vision has pushed the company beyond the confines of traditional retail with initiatives like the Game Changer app, a scoring and stat platform for youth sports that now has 9 million unique users. The app not only creates a direct connection with young athletes and their families — who are the company’s most loyal customers — but also forms the basis of a growing media network.

Looking ahead, Dick’s is preparing for a series of major sporting events in the U.S., including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Stack believes the World Cup will be “the biggest sports moment this country’s ever had,” and Dick’s is positioned to be at the center of it, he said.

Kate Robertson can be reached at kate@shop-eat-surf-outdoor.com.

Key Takeaways

• Positive Coaching Alliance launched the Lee Corso Legacy Fund to honor the former college football coach and ESPN analyst’s commitment to positive youth sports experiences
• The fund will establish the Lee Corso Legacy Award recognizing coaches who use sports to teach life lessons and build character in young athletes
• PCA board member and Tallen Capital Partners CEO Terry Tallen, a former player under Corso at Indiana University, provided the lead gift and is challenging others to match his donation
• The initiative extends PCA’s reach beyond its current impact of more than 20 million youth across all 50 states and partnerships with over 3,500 schools and organizations
• Contributions can be made at positivecoach.org/lee-corso-legacy-fund

Expanding PCA’s Coaching Education Mission

Positive Coaching Alliance announced the creation of the Lee Corso Legacy Fund, a new initiative designed to advance the organization’s work in transforming youth sports culture through coaching education and resources. The fund honors Corso’s decades-long advocacy for positive coaching methods that prioritize character development alongside athletic skill.

The fund will support PCA’s provision of training and resources for coaches, parents, and athletes. These programs focus on fostering sportsmanship, character development, and what the organization describes as “joy in play” for young participants.

New Award to Recognize Coaching Excellence

A central component of the fund is the establishment of the Lee Corso Legacy Award. The award will recognize coaches who demonstrate Corso’s philosophy that sports serve as a vehicle for teaching life lessons and developing confident, resilient young people.

“I’m deeply honored that the Positive Coaching Alliance is creating the Lee Corso Legacy Award to support youth sports,” said Corso. “Promoting youth sports has been a lifelong passion of mine. I have always believed that positive, encouraging coaching is the best way to motivate and inspire our youth.”

Corso, who built his coaching career before becoming one of college football’s most recognizable television personalities at ESPN, credited Terry Tallen for introducing him to the organization. Tallen, who played under Corso at Indiana University and served as co-captain of the team’s Holiday Bowl Championship squad, now sits on PCA’s board and serves as CEO of Tallen Capital Partners.

Lead Donor Issues Challenge to Sports Community

Tallen provided the fund’s lead gift donation and issued a public challenge to football fans, former players, and youth sports supporters to match his contribution. The funding structure aims to leverage Corso’s network and influence in college football to generate sustained support for PCA’s coaching development initiatives.

“I’m so proud of the Positive Coaching Alliance for expanding its mission by creating this fund and honoring one of college football’s greatest coaches, sportscasters and my longtime friend and mentor, Coach Lee Corso,” Tallen said. “I’m thrilled to kick off its funding with a significant lead gift donation and challenge my fellow football friends, fans and youth sports supporters to match my gift.”

The appeal positions the fund within both the college football community and the broader youth sports sector, targeting supporters familiar with Corso’s visibility in sports media and his coaching legacy.

Access and Equity in Youth Sports Coaching

PCA CEO Jason Sacks framed the fund within the organization’s commitment to ensuring access to quality coaching across different economic and social backgrounds. The fund’s structure supports the organization’s stated goal of providing positive sports experiences to every young person, regardless of circumstance.

“Coach Corso’s impact on generations of athletes, fans, and families goes far beyond the field,” Sacks said. “His legacy reminds us that when coaches lead with positivity, integrity, and love for the game, they shape lives. The Lee Corso Legacy Fund ensures that spirit will continue to inspire coaches and athletes for years to come.”

PCA currently operates partnerships in all 50 states and works with more than 3,500 schools and organizations. The organization reports reaching more than 20 million youth through its programs.

Strategic Implications for Youth Sports Development

The fund’s launch represents PCA’s continued focus on coaching quality as a lever for improving youth sports outcomes. By attaching Corso’s name and profile to the initiative, PCA gains access to college football networks and potential donor bases that may not typically engage with youth sports nonprofits.

The matching gift challenge from Tallen creates a fundraising mechanism designed to multiply initial contributions and build momentum for sustained support. The structure suggests PCA is positioning the fund for long-term growth rather than as a one-time campaign.

For coaches and youth sports organizations, the Lee Corso Legacy Award may provide recognition for practitioners who prioritize character development and positive athlete experiences. The award criteria, when released, will likely reflect PCA’s established coaching principles and could influence how coaching effectiveness is measured and celebrated in youth sports settings.

Supporters interested in contributing to the Lee Corso Legacy Fund can visit positivecoach.org/lee-corso-legacy-fund for more information.

via: Positive Coaching Alliance / MS

YSBR provides this content on an “as is” basis without any warranties, express or implied. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability, or use of the information, including any images, videos, or licenses associated with this article. For any concerns, including copyright issues or complaints, please contact YSBR directly.

About Youth Sports Business Report

Youth Sports Business Report is the largest and most trusted source for youth sports industry news, insights, and analysis covering the $54 billion youth sports market. Trusted by over 50,000 followers including industry executives, investors, youth sports parents and sports business professionals, we are the premier destination for comprehensive youth sports business intelligence.

Our core mission: Make Youth Sports Better. As the leading authority in youth sports business reporting, we deliver unparalleled coverage of sports business trends, youth athletics, and emerging opportunities across the youth sports ecosystem.

Our expert editorial team provides authoritative, in-depth reporting on key youth sports industry verticals including:

• Sports sponsorship and institutional capital (Private Equity, Venture Capital)
• Youth Sports events and tournament management
• NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) developments and compliance
• Youth sports coaching and sports recruitment strategies
• Sports technology and data analytics innovation
• Youth sports facilities development and management
• Sports content creation and digital media monetization

Whether you’re a sports industry executive, institutional investor, youth sports parent, coach, or sports business enthusiast, Youth Sports Business Report is your most reliable source for the actionable sports business insights you need to stay ahead of youth athletics trends and make informed decisions in the rapidly evolving youth sports landscape.

Join our growing community of 50,000+ industry leaders who depend on our trusted youth sports business analysis to drive success in the youth sports industry.

Stay connected with the pulse of the youth sports business – where industry expertise meets actionable intelligence.

Sign up for the biggest newsletter in Youth Sports – Youth Sports HQ – The best youth sports newsletter in the industry 

Follow us on LinkedIn

Follow Youth Sports Business Report Founder Cameron Korab on LinkedIn

Are you a brand looking to tap into the world’s most passionate fanbase… youth sports?

Introducing Play Up Partners, a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.

About Play Up Partners

Play Up Partners is a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.

Why Sponsor Youth Sports?

Youth sports represents one of the most engaged and passionate audiences in sports marketing. With over 70 million young athletes and their families participating annually, the youth sports industry offers brands unparalleled access to motivated communities with strong purchasing power and loyalty.

What Does Play Up Partners Do?

We’ve done the heavy lifting to untangle the complex youth sports landscape so our brand partners can engage with clarity, confidence, and impact. Our vetted network of accredited youth sports organizations (from local leagues to national tournaments and operators) allows us to create flexible, scalable programs that evolve with the market.

Our Approach

Every partnership we build is rooted in authenticity and value creation. We don’t just broker deals. We craft youth sports marketing strategies that:

• Deliver measurable ROI for brand partners
• Create meaningful experiences for athletes and families
• Elevate the youth sports ecosystem

Our Vision

We’re positioning youth sports as the most desirable and effective platform in sports marketing. Our mission is simple: MAKE YOUTH SPORTS BETTER for athletes, families, organizations, and brand partners.

Common Questions About Youth Sports Marketing

Where can I sponsor youth sports? How do I activate in youth sports? What is the ROI of youth sports marketing? How much does youth sports sponsorship cost?

We have answers. Reach out to info@playuppartners.com to learn how Play Up Partners can help your brand navigate the youth sports landscape.

Youth sports organizations: Interested in partnership opportunities? Reach out to learn about our accreditation process.

The goal is simple: Gambling in Arizona is 21+, and staying informed keeps young people safe.

The Arizona Department of Gaming (“ADG”) and its Division of Problem Gambling (“DPG”) today announced the launch of Too Young to Bet AZ, the state’s first youth-focused public awareness initiative to prevent underage gambling. The campaign is part of a national effort led by the National Council on Problem Gambling (“NCPG”) to raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling and educate communities on the importance of keeping gambling activities separate from children.

The Arizona initiative reinforces that all gambling in Arizona is strictly for individuals 21 and older and promotes a clear message: no form of gambling is acceptable or safe for children. Our goal is to educate and equip the adults who guide youth and young adults, including caregivers, coaches, and educators, with information to help prevent early exposure to gambling.

Through this initiative, ADG and DPG will share resources highlighting underage gambling risks, guidance for families and educators, downloadable youth-focused materials, and community engagement opportunities statewide. The Division of Problem Gambling is available to deliver presentations, offer technical assistance, and provide no-cost curriculum that schools, youth-serving groups, and community organizations can integrate into their existing programs. In addition, a 24-hour helpline, 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783), is available to confidentially connect callers with resources, including statewide treatment providers who specialize in problem gambling and financial counseling services.

The Department has launched a new website to amplify awareness and provide accurate information and resources to families and communities at Gaming.az.gov/TooYoungToBet

What Arizona Families Need to Know About Underage Gambling

Young people today encounter gambling-like activities through mobile apps, online games, advertising, and social media, often without recognizing the risks. According to NCPG, more than one in six adolescents has gambled in the past year, with many reporting their first gambling experience at age ten or younger. Many adults unintentionally introduce gambling through casual sports wagers, online games, or the gifting of lottery products. The good news is that research also shows that youth who talk openly with trusted adults about gambling are far less likely to develop gambling problems. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, educator, coach, mentor, or community leader, your voice matters.

• Early exposure increases risk: Youth who gamble or encounter gambling-like activities face a higher risk for future gambling problems.
• Simple conversations can make a real difference in preventing youth gambling: Ongoing conversations reduce risk, build awareness, and reinforce that gambling is for adults only.
• Games and apps often mimic gambling: Popular games include casino-style features that blur age-appropriate boundaries.
• Access is easier than ever: Phones, tablets, and online platforms expose youth to gambling ads, sports odds, and unregulated casino-style games that don’t have age verification.
• Parents and caregivers may not see it: Monitoring devices, downloads, and in-app purchases can help identify early warning signs.
• Prevention requires partnership: Families, schools, coaches, and community organizations all play a critical role in reinforcing that gambling in Arizona is for adults 21+ only.

“Youth gambling can take many forms, and it is a growing risk that families need to be aware of,” said Jackie Johnson, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming. “This initiative helps the community understand that in Arizona, gambling is for adults 21 and older and how important it is to keep gambling products out of kids’ hands. We are proud to join this national effort led by the National Council for Problem Gambling and encourage organizations across Arizona to get involved and help protect young people from underage gambling.”

“Underage gambling is more common than many families realize,” said Elise Mikkelsen, Director of the Division of Problem Gambling. “As prevention increasingly depends on families, schools, and communities working together, this campaign provides practical tools and gives adults the information they need to recognize early signs and keep gambling where it belongs, with adults. Our team is here to help and ready to support families, schools, and youth-serving organizations across the state.”

Organizations across Arizona are encouraged to visit Gaming.az.gov/TooYoungToBet to download our toolkit, share campaign messaging on social media and in newsletters, distribute prevention materials, integrate underage gambling education into their current programming, and engage with the DPG team for additional support.

Together, we can protect Arizona’s youth by staying informed, increasing awareness of underage gambling risks, supporting responsible decisions, and ensuring families receive accurate, age-appropriate information.

About the Arizona Department of Gaming

Established by the Arizona State Legislature in 1995, ADG is the state regulatory agency for tribal gaming, event wagering & fantasy sports contests, racing and pari-mutuel/simulcast wagering, and unarmed combat sports. ADG also provides and supports education, prevention, and treatment programs for people and families affected by problem gambling through its Division of Problem Gambling and 24-hour confidential helpline, 1-800-NEXT STEP.

About the National Council on Problem Gambling

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is neutral on legalized gambling. Based in Washington, D.C., NCPG is the only national nonprofit organization that seeks to minimize the economic and social costs associated with gambling addiction. For more information, visit www.ncpgambling.org.

Read more stories from the Phoenix Area on Signals A Z.com.

Be in the Know with the F1RST2KNOW Ultimate Holiday Guide!

Students sleep overnight on an outdoor basketball court.

Spearheaded by Plant City Vice-Mayor Jason Jones, the Plant City Youth Commission is a comprehensive program for high school students designed to empower and inspire them to become active leaders who will shape the future of Plant City. As a part of this program, the Youth Commissioners go on field trips locally, and as far away as Tallahassee, to learn how municipalities and governments work.

“Part of my plan for the Youth Commission is to teach the high school students about local government, but also to educate them about their community,” Jones said. “When they filled out their applications, the majority said one thing they wanted to learn more about in their community is homelessness. Camp Street Lights has been going on for quite a while. They have a great program. Instead of recreating something new here in Plant City, we decided to join up with Hillsborough County.” Hillsborough County Children’s Services hosted the event on November 21. A panel of speakers addressed 200 attendees about homelessness. 

“I wanted to take part because I enjoy helping with community events and representing the Youth Commission in a positive way,” Youth Commissioner Julissa Santana, a sophomore at Plant City Christian Academy (PCCA), commented. “It felt like it was a great opportunity to contribute and connect with people. I was a little unsure at first about what to expect, but once I got there, everyone was welcoming and the atmosphere made it easy to get involved. I learned how much planning and teamwork go into community events, and how important it is to stay flexible and supportive. It also taught me more about engaging with the public in a positive way.” 

Participants heard stories from some people who were homeless in the past, and stories about homelessness as a young person. “The students got to hear about what it was like to be homeless, and not just some numbers,” Jones said. “It really taught some compassion. It taught them to think about others and how to help others.”  

As a part of Camp Street Lights, the students had the chance to experience a night of homelessness by sleeping on an outdoor basketball court.

“I see homeless people when I drive around,” Youth Commissioner Angela Garcia, a sophomore at PCCA, said. “I wanted to know why there are so many. I thought it would be a good learning opportunity. It was very educational. It taught me a lot about homelessness; how it is more than just not having a job. There is a spectrum of reasons. I also learned there are more homeless people than I thought there was; the numbers are in the thousands for teenagers and young adults in Hillsborough County.” 

“It was a good experience, a good opportunity to learn about the community, and how we could help out and give back to our community,” Santana said. 

Related Stories

Key Takeaways

• IMG Academy will host the inaugural Under Armour Track and Field Nationals in May 2026, marking Florida’s first-ever national track and field event
• Registration opens February 1, 2026 and closes May 1, 2026, with entry selection based on verified performance marks
• The three-day championship (May 29-31) will feature high school and middle school athletes competing across all track and field disciplines
• IMG Academy is installing a new Rekortan Gel Series track surface made from 84% renewable and recycled materials ahead of the event
• The partnership extends Under Armour’s existing event portfolio at IMG Academy, which includes basketball, football, and training camps

via: IMG

Filling a Gap in National Competition Access

IMG Academy and Under Armour announced the creation of the 2026 Under Armour Track and Field Nationals on December 3, 2025. The event addresses a notable absence in the competitive landscape: Florida has never hosted a national track and field championship despite being home to significant youth athletics infrastructure and year-round training conditions.

Mark Napier, Director of Track and Field at IMG Academy, identified the gap in national opportunities for the sport within the state. The decision to create the event reflects both organizations’ existing relationship and Under Armour’s track record of bringing youth athletics programming to the Bradenton campus.

“At IMG Academy, our goal is to create unrivaled environments where student-athletes can unlock their potential,” said Brian Nash, VP of Athletics at IMG Academy. “When Mark Napier, our Director of Track and Field, identified a gap in national opportunities for the sport in Florida, we knew we had to act.”

Event Structure and Selection Process

The championship will run for three days in late May 2026, with competition taking place Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31. A pre-meet day and early packet pickup is scheduled for Thursday, May 28.

Athletes can register between February 1 and May 1, 2026. Entry acceptance will be determined by a meet committee using a descending-order selection process based on verified performance marks. Field sizes will be predetermined, creating a selective entry standard designed to feature top-performing athletes across all track and field disciplines.

Both high school and middle school student-athletes will compete in separate divisions. The format encompasses all traditional track and field events, from sprints and distance races to field events including jumps and throws.

Strategic Infrastructure Investment

In preparation for hosting national-level competition, IMG Academy is upgrading its track facility with a new surface from Rekortan, which will become an Official Sponsor of IMG Academy through the partnership.

The facility will feature the Rekortan Gel Series, described as the world’s only gel-based track surface. The material uses a thinner gel layer composed of 84% renewable and recycled materials, designed to optimize athlete performance and welfare while reducing environmental impact compared to traditional track surfaces.

IMG Academy’s facility design includes strategic layouts and wind-aware event configurations intended to support fast times, long jumps, and competitive throwing results. These considerations reflect the institution’s focus on creating performance-optimized competition environments.

Extending an Established Partnership

The Track and Field Nationals represents an expansion of Under Armour’s existing event presence at IMG Academy. The brands have previously collaborated on several youth athletics programs, including the Justin Jefferson Flight School, UA Future 60 Basketball Camp, UA Kelsey Plum Camp, and UA Next Future 50.

“We have always been dedicated to creating opportunities for young athletes to compete at the highest level,” said Craig Cummings, VP of Team Sports at Under Armour. “The UA Track and Field Nationals will be a stage for the next generations to showcase their talent, push boundaries, and experience what it means to perform without limits.”

The partnership structure allows Under Armour to connect its brand with elite youth competition while providing IMG Academy with marquee events that utilize its campus facilities during key calendar windows.

Competitive Positioning in Youth Track and Field

The launch positions IMG Academy as a national track and field destination during a period of growth in youth athletics events. The facility’s year-round accessibility, combined with its established reputation in other sports, creates operational advantages for hosting national championships.

Florida’s climate allows for consistent outdoor competition conditions during the spring season, when many northern states still face weather-related scheduling challenges. The timing of late May also falls after most state championship meets but before summer training cycles begin, creating a potential window for top performers to compete in a national setting.

The event’s success will likely depend on its ability to attract verified elite marks during the registration period and deliver competition conditions that produce nationally competitive performances. The predetermined field sizes suggest a selective approach designed to maintain competitive standards rather than maximize participation volume.

Looking Ahead

The inaugural 2026 Under Armour Track and Field Nationals represents IMG Academy’s entry into national track and field event hosting, backed by facility upgrades and an established brand partnership. The event’s structure prioritizes verified performance standards and provides Florida athletes access to a national championship in their home state for the first time.

Registration details, qualifying standards, and specific event schedules will be released in advance of the February 1, 2026 registration opening. The meet’s ability to attract top national talent during its first year will provide early indicators of its long-term positioning within the youth track and field calendar.

Both organizations have indicated the event is designed as a multi-year initiative, with the infrastructure investments and partnership structure supporting ongoing annual competition.

YSBR provides this content on an “as is” basis without any warranties, express or implied. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability, or use of the information, including any images, videos, or licenses associated with this article. For any concerns, including copyright issues or complaints, please contact YSBR directly.

About Youth Sports Business Report

Youth Sports Business Report is the largest and most trusted source for youth sports industry news, insights, and analysis covering the $54 billion youth sports market. Trusted by over 50,000 followers including industry executives, investors, youth sports parents and sports business professionals, we are the premier destination for comprehensive youth sports business intelligence.

Our core mission: Make Youth Sports Better. As the leading authority in youth sports business reporting, we deliver unparalleled coverage of sports business trends, youth athletics, and emerging opportunities across the youth sports ecosystem.

Our expert editorial team provides authoritative, in-depth reporting on key youth sports industry verticals including:

• Sports sponsorship and institutional capital (Private Equity, Venture Capital)
• Youth Sports events and tournament management
• NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) developments and compliance
• Youth sports coaching and sports recruitment strategies
• Sports technology and data analytics innovation
• Youth sports facilities development and management
• Sports content creation and digital media monetization

Whether you’re a sports industry executive, institutional investor, youth sports parent, coach, or sports business enthusiast, Youth Sports Business Report is your most reliable source for the actionable sports business insights you need to stay ahead of youth athletics trends and make informed decisions in the rapidly evolving youth sports landscape.

Join our growing community of 50,000+ industry leaders who depend on our trusted youth sports business analysis to drive success in the youth sports industry.

Stay connected with the pulse of the youth sports business – where industry expertise meets actionable intelligence.

Sign up for the biggest newsletter in Youth Sports – Youth Sports HQ – The best youth sports newsletter in the industry 

Follow us on LinkedIn

Follow Youth Sports Business Report Founder Cameron Korab on LinkedIn

Are you a brand looking to tap into the world’s most passionate fanbase… youth sports?

Introducing Play Up Partners, a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.

About Play Up Partners

Play Up Partners is a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.

Why Sponsor Youth Sports?

Youth sports represents one of the most engaged and passionate audiences in sports marketing. With over 70 million young athletes and their families participating annually, the youth sports industry offers brands unparalleled access to motivated communities with strong purchasing power and loyalty.

What Does Play Up Partners Do?

We’ve done the heavy lifting to untangle the complex youth sports landscape so our brand partners can engage with clarity, confidence, and impact. Our vetted network of accredited youth sports organizations (from local leagues to national tournaments and operators) allows us to create flexible, scalable programs that evolve with the market.

Our Approach

Every partnership we build is rooted in authenticity and value creation. We don’t just broker deals. We craft youth sports marketing strategies that:

• Deliver measurable ROI for brand partners
• Create meaningful experiences for athletes and families
• Elevate the youth sports ecosystem

Our Vision

We’re positioning youth sports as the most desirable and effective platform in sports marketing. Our mission is simple: MAKE YOUTH SPORTS BETTER for athletes, families, organizations, and brand partners.

Common Questions About Youth Sports Marketing

Where can I sponsor youth sports? How do I activate in youth sports? What is the ROI of youth sports marketing? How much does youth sports sponsorship cost?

We have answers. Reach out to info@playuppartners.com to learn how Play Up Partners can help your brand navigate the youth sports landscape.

Youth sports organizations: Interested in partnership opportunities? Reach out to learn about our accreditation process.