Dear Andy,

We are excited to share the latest updates and developments that have transpired since our last communication. The PLAY Sports Coalition board of directors and executive team have been working hard behind the scenes to drive meaningful progress in our mission to promote and protect youth sports. Over the past several months, our collective efforts have yielded remarkable outcomes, with new partnerships, advocacy initiatives, and innovative programs taking shape.

PLAY Sports Coalition Distributes State-Funded Grants for Youth Sports Organizations in Maryland and Massachusetts

We are thrilled to announce $450K in funding was granted to 31 non-profit organizations in Maryland and Massachusetts to provide equitable access to sports. The funding provides one-year grants to programs using sports as a tool for youth development in historically disadvantaged communities.

Read the full release, including the list of grantees here.

PLAY Sports Coalition - Capitol Hill Meetings

PLAY Sports Coalition will be organizing a “fly-in” to Washington, DC on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. This will provide an opportunity for youth sports organizations to meet with members of Congress and/or their staff to advocate for youth sports support and funding. If you plan on traveling to Washington, DC for the "fly-in" and would like the PLAY Sports Coalition and its government affairs firm to coordinate a meeting with your representative office(s) visit the link below to fill out the form.

Note: The PLAY Sports Coalition will not be covering the travel or lodging costs for members that would like to take part in the "fly-in."

Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32) Re-introduces the PLAYS in Youth Sports Act

On July 13 Congressman Allred re-introduced the PLAYS in Youth Sports Act.  The bill calls on the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a $75 million annual grant program to support nonprofit organizations working to improve health and positive youth development through youth sports participation. 

“I am a YMCA kid, and without the Y, I would not be where I am today,” said Allred. “That includes all the programs like team sports that are so valuable to our communities, and offer our kids a chance to learn how to work together on a team toward a common goal. I am proud to lead this bipartisan legislation to strengthen sports programs for young people in North Texas and across the country.” 

Read the full release here.

Have questions? Contact us today at:

advocacy@playsportscoalition.org