I am a strong believer in the fact that youth sports teach young people far more than how to play a game. On a team, kids learn discipline, responsibility, and how to work toward a common goal. They discover that effort matters, that practice leads to improvement, and that success often comes from consistency rather than talent alone. These lessons carry over into school, friendships, and later into jobs and adult life.

I also believe that youth sports matter because they help young people grow socially and emotionally. Sports give kids a chance to build confidence, handle both winning and losing, and learn how to bounce back from setbacks. They also create friendships and a sense of belonging, which is especially valuable during the years when many young people are still trying to find their place. Being part of a team can help them feel supported, included, and connected to others.

Finally, youth sports support healthy bodies and healthy habits. In a time when many kids spend a lot of time sitting indoors, sports encourage movement, fitness, and overall well-being. They can build strong habits that last a lifetime, including staying active, setting goals, and caring for physical health. For all these reasons, youth sports are not just a pastime—they are a powerful way to help young people grow into confident, resilient, and healthy adults.

I encourage you to sign your youngsters up to play CYO sports this fall.  Cross Country, Hot Shot Basketball and Volleyball are all available for both boys and girls through the CYO office in Portland, Oregon.

A few shots of youth participation in fall CYO Sports: