High school sports is a gamble

Many parents and players don’t see it that way

Last night, my youngest son finally walked in the house after sitting in the car with his dad for almost an hour. It’s not unusual on nights he brings him home from practice or games that they chat a bit. Just not for an hour.

When I asked what they were talking about he replied, “The future.”

Now I was confused. When questioned further he explained that he may not be at his current school in two years, if the coach leaves. Playing time come junior year is a concern for him. Depending on who presides, he concludes he may not see much clock, and should transfer elsewhere.

The mass exodus of players entering the college transfer portal in recent years has trickled to the high school level. Two out of the three transfers on his team have just been cleared to the play. The other was not and must spend his Junior season playing on the JV team.

I’d hate for my son to transfer to a different school come junior year due to coaching changes, and questionable playing time. There’s only so much time for high school players to prove themselves in hopes of earning a scholarship. Factors out of their control like genetics, coaching style, and schedule strength play a part in potential success as well.

What makes high school and AAU sports such a huge gamble for parents and players, is the time, energy, and money spent with no scholarship guarantees. The commercials…