RANT: Why is every kids' sport SO EXPENSIVE?

Jan 10·1 min read

Just signed my kids up for soccer this fall. Registration: $150 each. Then they need shin guards, cleats, socks. A decent pair of soccer cleats for a 7yo is like $70. And apparently we need to volunteer for three games or pay an extra $50. This is getting ridiculous. Single income household here and I feel like I'm nickeled and dimed constantly. Does anyone do sports on a budget or is this just the cost of being a parent in 2024?

5 comments474 views

Comments(5)

PPhil C.RegularJan 11

Have you looked into rec leagues vs competitive teams? Our rec league is way cheaper, like $80-90, and honestly the kids have just as much fun. Competitive is where the real money pit starts.

PPhil M.RegularJan 12

Yeah I was shocked when I added it all up too. $150 registration plus $200 in gear for my son's first soccer season. Wife said we could've gone to Disney for that. She's not wrong lol.

BBrandon T.New DadJan 13

Check if your local community center runs programs. They're usually half the price of these travel leagues and kids honestly don't know the difference at that age.

TTerrence J.RegularJan 13

The shin guards and cleats thing gets me every time. Just bought new ones last month because my daughter's feet grew and her old ones don't fit anymore. Literally worn twice. I feel like sports equipment is a scam designed to drain parent wallets.

LLou P.RegularJan 12

Don't even get me started on team fees after registration. Our league wanted another $50 for 'coaching stipend' which I'm pretty sure goes nowhere.