Chapter Outline
Origin and Development of Organized Youth Sports
The Post-war Baby Boom and the Growth of Youth Sports
Social Changes Have Influenced the Growth of Organized Youth Sports
Major Trends in Youth Sports Today
The Privatization of Organized Schemes
REFLECT ON SPORTS: Sponsorship Matters: Variations in the Purpose of Organized Youth
Sports
Emphasis on the Performance Ethic
New, Elite, Specialized Sport-Training Schemes
Increased Involvement and Concerns Among Parents
Increased Interest in Alternative and Action Sports
Different Experiences: Informal, Player-Controlled Sports Versus Organized, Adult
Controlled Sports
Informal, Player-Controlled Sports
Formal, Adult-Controlled Sports
Analysis of Differences
Sociological Questions About Youth Sports
When Are Children Ready to Play Organized Competitive Sports?
What Are the Dynamics of Family Relationships in Connection with Organized Youth Sports?
How Do Social Factors Influence Youth Sport Experiences?
BREAKING BARRIERS: Mainstreaming Barriers: Will They Let Me Play with My Brace?
Sports and Education
Physical Education and School Sports
Student Athletes in Further and Higher Education
Recommendations for Improving Youth Sports
Improving Informal, Alternative and Action Sports
Improving Organized Sports
Improving High-Performance Sport Schemes
Prospects for Improving Youth Sports
Summary: Are Organized Youth Sport Schemes Worth the Effort?