ESPN has strengthened its commitment to improving youth sports participation through its Take Back Sports initiative. The company has unveiled a new website, an animated campaign video, and announced recipients of its first Innovation Challenge grants.
The newly launched TakeBackSports.org offers parents, coaches, and caregivers practical tools to create a better youth sports experience. The site features articles, checklists, and interactive resources, including “Ten Tips for First-Time Sports Parents” and the “Ask PCA” tool for advice on navigating youth sports challenges. For a limited time, ESPN will cover registration fees for PCA’s Parent Online Courses. Included will be strategies for positive game-day communication and building productive relationships with coaches.
As part of its $5 million investment in reimagining youth sports, ESPN awarded Innovation Challenge grants to several organizations leading inclusive and transformative programs. Recipients include City Parks Foundation, Let Her Play, and the Lakeshore Foundation. All are working to reduce barriers and encourage multi-sport participation nationwide.
“Take Back Sports reflects our belief that every child deserves the chance to play and thrive through sports,” said Kevin Martinez, ESPN’s Vice President of Corporate Citizenship. “These initiatives help build a stronger, more inclusive sports culture for the next generation.”
The initiative comes at a critical time. Youth sports programs nationwide face challenges related to declining participation, financial barriers, and a growing need for inclusive environments. ESPN’s continued investment underscores the network’s broader commitment to leveraging its platform to create positive social impact. It hopes to help families, coaches, and communities foster a love of sports that emphasizes fun, development, and opportunity for all.
In partnership with Disney Jr. and Every Kid Sports, ESPN also introduced a new preschool-focused grant program. The new grant has been introduced to help families facing financial hardship enroll their children in youth sports.
For more information, visit TakeBackSports.org.
