The L.D. Washington and Nathaniel Cannon Wall of Honor celebrates the legacy of youth sports and the leaders who built and sustained the East Austin Youth Foundation and the Greater East Austin Youth Association – organizations that have created vital opportunities for Black youth during and after segregation.
The wall is housed in the Britton, Durst, Howard and Spence Building at 1183 Chestnut Ave. in Rosewood Neighborhood Park, a historic center for Black youth sports. The building was renamed in 2011 to honor four community leaders, including Lawrence M. Britton, Sr. and James Howard, who helped found the East Austin Youth Foundation. Their work provided a safe and empowering space for young athletes at a time when Black children were excluded from white leagues.
James Howard later partnered with Nathaniel Cannon to co-found the Greater East Austin Youth Association, continuing the mission of community uplift. Cannon has served as the association’s treasurer since its founding in 1975 and has been a key organizer of the group’s annual Juneteenth celebration for over 25 years.
L.D. Washington, a beloved coach and mentor, also played a pivotal role in the East Austin Youth Foundation. His influence extended beyond sports, and he was honored with the Al Edwards Juneteenth Un-Sung Hero Award in 2001 and inducted into the Prairie View Interscholastic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2016.
The idea for the Wall of Honor came from Kenneth D. Thompson, Sr., a former player and parent in the East Austin Youth Foundation. He partnered with Lee Dawson, Jr., president of the Greater East Austin Youth Association and a former player himself, to bring the vision to life. The project was made possible through funding from the Austin Parks Foundation’s Austin City Limits Music Festival Grants Program.
Terrebonne Parish Recreation suspended its All-Stars youth sports program due to recurring fights among parents.
A recreation supervisor cited multiple incidents, including parking lot brawls and altercations with referees, as the reason for the program’s halt.
The parish is implementing a “no tolerance” policy for parents, which includes signing a waiver and a ban on threats, verbal abuse and substance use.
Officials plan to test the new policy for a year and aim to reinstate the All-Stars program in 2027 if parental behavior improves.
When parents kept getting into fights at Terrebonne Parish Recreation’s sporting events, the government decided to put the All-Stars program in time out.
Terrebonne Parish’s All-Stars program began in the 1970s and abruptly ended about three years ago after parents of the athletes kept misbehaving, Bobby Arceneaux said. Arceneaux has been a supervisor with Terrebonne Parish Rec for 52 years, and he said he thought he had seen everything, but when he walked out of a girls softball game in Jefferson Parish to see parents getting into fistfights with the opposing team, he said it was time to take action.
“I guess what broke it was our last year, when we did away with it, the All-Stars girls, we were fighting in the parking lot amongst each other, and here came the cops from every direction,” he said. “And we were on the court and went after a referee the next day.
“‘I’m embarrassed as the girl’s director because we don’t have to do that.”
Arceneaux was called to speak Dec. 17 to the Terrebonne Parish Council after the council had questions about the status of the All-Stars program.
The program, he said, used to be a big deal for Terrebonne. It consisted of multiple competitive youth sports teams. The parish even hosted multiple Babe Ruth League World Championships in Dularge, drawing more than 70 teams to the parish.
When asked why the program was halted, what he said surprised the Council.
“I’m just in awe… we’re talkin’ about the parents are fighting? Is that what we are saying? I mean are we serious?” Councilman Brien Pledger asked. “And to the people that might be listening to this, it’s a damn shame… Don’t relive your glory days, it’s over with. Let your kids do their thing.”
According to Arceneaux, most of the parents were great, and some even served as coaches. Unfortunately, about five parents were threatening violence on officials and getting into fights. Their actions resulted in the parish being banned from several fields. Eventually it was enough, he said, and he called the then-head of Quality of Life Jim Wendell to suggest they close down the program for a while.
Terrebonne Parish Manager Noah Lirette said the parish has been working on a “no tolerance” policy, and parents now have to sign a waiver when they register their children for sports. The Rec. Districts agreed to put up signs displaying the rules in their gyms, and he expects them to be finished with the new policies by the start of the next season of each sport.
“It really is a shame that some folks will sacrifice a great program for kids because they don’t know how to act,” Lirette said. “The no tolerance policy means no alcohol, no drugs on public fields. No threats of violence, no verbal abuse to kids or anybody else. If you break those rules, the police will get involved.”
According to Lirette, he wants a year of testing the “no tolerance” policy, and will bring back All-Stars in 2027.
The NCAA’s approval of new guidance on performance technology use this week offers a preview of questions that youth sports organizations will increasingly face as wearables, biometric tracking, and AI-powered analysis tools become more prevalent at younger age levels.
The guidance, developed after a May summit in Indianapolis, establishes three foundational principles:
Performance technologies are just one tool (not a solution)
They carry unintended risks including mental health impacts
Organizations need written plans for data management, education, and continuous improvement
What the NCAA Guidelines Say
The NCAA Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports defined performance technologies as any devices that collect biometric or performance data. This includes wearables attached directly to athletes or equipment, as well as cameras, sensors, surveys, software, and mobile apps that monitor performance indirectly.
The guidance includes three types of statements: foundational statements (the most important takeaways), recommendation statements (general considerations), and strategy statements (for implementation). Key requirements include establishing written plans for technology use, educating relevant groups, managing and protecting athlete data, making informed purchasing decisions, and implementing continuous improvement processes.
The NCAA will begin educational programming at the 2026 Convention, with full consensus statements available in early 2026.
What New NCAA Wearable Guidelines Mean for Youth Sports
While the NCAA guidance applies only to collegiate athletics, the framework addresses issues already present in youth sports:
Data Privacy at Scale: Youth sports operators using GPS tracking, heart rate monitors, video analysis platforms, or recruiting apps collect data on minors. The NCAA’s emphasis on data management plans signals growing expectations that organizations must document how they protect athlete information.
The Mental Health Variable: If NCAA athletes with developed emotional regulation face mental health concerns from performance tracking, the implications for 10-14 year-olds receiving constant biometric feedback or video analysis deserve scrutiny. The guidance acknowledges what many youth sports operators have observed: more data does not always equal better development.
Governance Gap: The NCAA now has structured guidance. Most youth sports organizations do not. As these technologies become cheaper and more accessible, the question is not whether youth sports will use them, but whether operators will implement them with appropriate safeguards.
What Comes Next
The NCAA will roll out educational programming starting at the 2026 Convention, with full guidance available in early 2026. Youth sports organizations watching this space should consider: Do we have a written technology use plan? How are we addressing informed consent with parents? What metrics actually serve athlete development versus organizational marketing?
The technology is not going away. The NCAA’s move suggests the conversation about how to use it responsibly is just beginning, and youth sports will not be far behind.
via: AB
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 youthsports 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.
Sign-ups are underway for children wanting to play in the Spring Softball League with the Newcastle Youth Sports Association.
Area parents can sign up their children from the end of December through January 31, 2026. Those registering before December 20 can receive a discount on their $55 fee. Register at: https://playpass.com/ ok-NYSA, and then use the code SPRING26.
You can also refer a friend and get $10 off your next registration. These can be done online at https://playpass. com/ok-nysa/invite.
The Spring League is from March 1 through June 30, 2026 and plays at 3009 State Highway 130 in Newcastle. The game schedule is dependent on number of teams and how many rain outs they could have.
NYSA states it will do its best to have each age group on its own set night, but we don’t have a way to know which nights until we see how many teams sign up in each age group, and the coordination with other cities is complete.
Team signups can also be completed through the website. They are $175 each.
The NYSA states that it is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and positive environment where youth of all skill levels, from beginners to competitive players, can develop their softball skills, sportsmanship, and love for the game.
They believe in promoting community, teamwork and personal growth.
The 2025 U.S. defense bill, the National Defense Authorization Act, which passed the Senate on Wednesday and is headed to President Donald Trump’s desk, includes provisions that ban biological males from women’s sports at U.S. military academies.
“The NDAA also permanently prohibits men from playing on women’s sports teams at all military academies,” reads a section of a Dec. 9 administrative statement addressing the bill from Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala.
Trans athletes have been prohibited from competing in NCAA sports dating back to February 6, when the NCAA updated its gender eligibility policy to comply with Trump’s “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports” executive order.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
A federal appeals court has also recently allowed the Pentagon to temporarily enforce its ban on transgender military service members.
The latest bill is one of the last remaining items that congress will address in 2025.
Lawmakers banded together to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a roughly $901 billion package crammed to the brim with defense policy that unlocks funding for several of the Trump administration’s national defense priorities.
TOP GOP SENATOR URGES OLYMPIC OFFICIALS TO SWIFTLY ENACT ‘DECISIVE POLICY’ BANNING MEN FROM WOMEN’S SPORTS
The measure passed through the upper chamber on a 77-20 bipartisan vote. It’s a perennial legislative exercise lawmakers undertake, and one that normally comes and goes with little fuss, given that Congress typically bookends the year with it.
Other provisions, like a requirement for the Pentagon to release the unedited footage of boat strikes in the Caribbean in exchange for fully funding the Department of War’s travel fund, raised eyebrows but didn’t slow down the package’s success.
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That provision comes as lawmakers demand more transparency in the Trump administration’s strikes against alleged drug boats, and in particular, as they seek the release of the footage from a Sept. 2 double-strike on a vessel.
“This defense authorization act, although it doesn’t have as much in there for defense as a lot of us would like, is a step in the right direction,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said. “And I think the defense appropriations bill, which hopefully we’ll vote on later this week, is another example of the investment that we need to be making, to ensure that in a dangerous world, we are prepared to defend America and American interests.”
Fox News Digital’s Alex Miller contributed to this report.
Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.
Jackson Thompson is a sports reporter for Fox News Digital covering critical political and cultural issues in sports, with an investigative lens. Jackson’s reporting has been cited in federal government actions related to the enforcement of Title IX, and in legacy media outlets including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Associated Press and ESPN.com.
TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/Gray News) – Two children in Idaho are critically injured after a tree fell on them while they were waiting for the school bus.
The Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office said high winds caused rotten trees to fall on power lines before collapsing on the children.
The kids, both under the age of 10, and an older sibling were waiting outside for their bus when the tree collapsed. According to the sheriff’s office, the older sibling was not injured.
Aaron Hudson, the Twin Falls fire deputy chief, told KTVB first responders had to first get the kids out from the tree and downed power lines before they could prepare them for transport.
The sheriff’s office said one of the children was taken to the hospital by ambulance, while the other was airlifted.
According to Hudson, the weather conditions caused difficulties during transport. He said that it prevented the helicopter from going any further than the local hospital.
The family of the children has started a GoFundMe to help cover medical expenses.
Copyright 2025 KMVT via Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.
Welcome to another Feel Good Friday from our friends at GoFundMe, where we celebrate the stories that remind us why youth sports matter far beyond wins and losses. Today’s spotlight features five remarkable fundraising campaigns that showcase how communities are supporting youth athletics through grassroots fundraising.
Community Rallies to Save Lōkahi Water Polo Club After Vandalism
The Lōkahi Water Polo club recently faced a heartbreaking setback when they discovered that three of their four inflatable goals had been slashed with a knife or scissors. These goals are essential for the community-based team, which consists of kids ages 6 to 18 who practice right in the ocean. While the damage felt like a targeted attack, the club is using the experience to teach its players about perseverance and grit. They are refusing to let the incident dampen their spirit of unity and Aloha.
The community quickly rallied behind the team to make sure the kids could keep playing. One local coach even lent the club a goal to keep them operational, while parents jumped in immediately to patch the damaged equipment. To help cover the costs of the expensive goals, which run about $600 each, the club turned to the community for help. A GoFundMe was set up to raise the necessary funds for replacements, and the response was more than they could have hoped for.
Thanks to an incredible outpouring of support, the GoFundMe exceeded its goal. The club now has enough money to repair the nets and replace their equipment, ensuring they can continue practicing for the USA Water Polo Jr. Olympics. Even when the world isn’t full of Aloha, the team is proving they can power through any challenge. As their motto says, “We are the storm,” and this community support has ensured the club will come out stronger than ever.
Sunset Park Shines: PS 503 Basketball Program Soars on Wave of Community Support
Sunset Park basketball players at PS 503 are preparing for their third season, determined to build on the success of their championship winning, undefeated season last year. The Title 1 school team, representing a community filled with resilience and heart, continues to show a strong commitment to pushing themselves academically and athletically. The program is helping students build something bigger than basketball as they become the pride of Sunset Park.
To ensure the athletes have the necessary tools, gear, and support to compete at a high level, the coaches launched a GoFundMe with a goal of $6,200. The community’s response was spectacular, quickly surpassing the initial target.
The generosity from the community directly impacts the young athletes and helps the school build a program that inspires the entire neighborhood. The support for the team is a testament to the belief in what these kids can achieve, a spirit that helped spark their special, undefeated season last year. The team is ready to rise to any challenge as they prepare for their upcoming season.
Tampa Bay Community Rallies to Raise $8,500 for Youth Tennis Ministry and After-School Expansion
For seven years, Serving Youth Tennis has been dedicated to building biblical character and creating pathways to college for at-risk youth throughout the Tampa Bay Area. What started as a small ministry with a few donated racquets has blossomed into a life changing program where kids grow in skill, character, and faith. The organization provides completely free tennis instruction, summer camps, and academic incentive programs, ensuring that hundreds of youth every year have access to high quality sports ministry and mentorship.
The program is currently preparing for its most ambitious chapter yet by working toward owning a dedicated facility. This space would house a full time after school program, allowing the ministry to offer daily tutoring, structured tennis training, and expanded leadership development. By having a permanent home, the organization aims to serve more children with a deeper impact, helping them feel seen and supported while they grow into the next generation of leaders and athletes.
To help turn this dream into a reality, the organization launched its 7 Days of Giving campaign. The community responded with incredible generosity, and the fundraiser successfully raised $8,500 to support the mission. “Serving Youth Tennis isn’t just a sports program — it’s a ministry,” and these funds will directly help provide the mentorship and resources necessary to build stronger families and safer communities across Tampa Bay.
Community Generosity Sends Marching Maroons to State Championship in Detroit
The Marching Maroons band recently traveled to Detroit to support the Menominee Maroons Varsity football team during their state championship finals against Schoolcraft. Following a thrilling semi-final victory, the band was determined to bring the spirit of Menominee to the big game and cheer their team on from the stands. This unforgettable journey was a major milestone for the students, providing them with the opportunity to participate in a high-stakes championship environment.
The logistics for such a trip involved significant costs for bus transportation, hotel accommodations, and meals for all band members. Although initial quotes for these travel expenses came in higher than anticipated, the organization remained committed to ensuring every student could attend. To cover the rising costs, they reopened their fundraising efforts and turned to their local community for assistance in bridging the financial gap.
Ultimately, the trip was made possible by an incredible outpouring of local support that saw nearly $10,000 raised on GoFundMe. These funds ensured that every member of the Marching Maroons could travel safely and represent their school with pride on the biggest stage in the state. The generosity of the community helped create lifelong memories for the students as they stood proudly with their team throughout the competition.
Whirlie Nation Rallies Behind State Champions for Final Goal: The Rings
The Whirlies football team is still riding high after their huge state championship win in Chapel Hill. The victory followed months of hard work that began back in January, creating memories that will stick with the players forever. Now, the coaches are looking to cap off this amazing season by getting every single player a championship ring, a well deserved reward for all their dedication.
Right now, the team is still fundraising to make those rings a reality. They’re reaching out to the entire Whirlie Nation community for a final push. Every little bit helps, whether it is $5 or $50. Folks can even sponsor a specific player’s ring with a $250 donation, or businesses can contribute $1000 or more to get some sponsor recognition.
The coaching staff is incredibly grateful for the support from the community all season long, saying they are “infinitely grateful for everything you do for us”. As they work towards this final goal, they want to assure everyone that not a single dollar will be taken for granted. It is still a work in progress, but with the community’s help, they’ll soon have those rings to celebrate their championship run.
Legal Disclaimer: 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.
