When kids show potential and an interest in playing sports at a highly competitive level, parents should understand both the opportunities as well as the sacrifices involved with participating in youth travel teams.
Youth Sports Travel Teams Explained
A travel team is comprised of young athletes who show significant potential and dedication to a sport. As the name implies, they regularly compete at out-of-town locations. But, there is more to it than simply the distance traveled. These young athletes are considered to be on an elite level for their age group and acceptance on a team is by invitation only after try outs. Teams are run by private, for-profit organizations. Professional coaches determine player acceptance, placement and play time. Everyone on the team is expected to have a high level of commitment for improving their technical skills, game knowledge, and sportsmanship. And when it’s time to compete, players often travel long distances to participate in games, tournaments and showcase events. Accordingly, parents must be prepared for the considerable time and financial commitment required to support their child.
To help further clarify youth travel teams, consider the contrast to local recreational sports. Rec leagues are open to all kids in an age group regardless of experience or skill level and players join a team upon registration without try outs. Typically, everyone on the team will be given an opportunity to participate in all practices and all games, which are held at local courts or fields.
Youth travel teams operate at a higher level. With professional coaching, demanding practices, and frequent opportunities for competitive games, participation on a travel team can help kids earn a leadership role on their high school team and get recruited for college.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Playing on a Youth Travel Team
Advantages
Higher level of competition compared with local recreation leagues
Professional coaching and dedicated teammates
Exposure to college scouts
Development of commitment, dedication and determination
Kids gain intelligence about competing at a higher level in the sport, opening up opportunities for a leadership position on school teams
Team camaraderie can offer strong peer support and lead to life long friendships
Travel experience fosters emotional and social development, independence, and decision-making
Disadvantages
Considerable financial costs for registration fees, travel, camps, private lessons, practice gear and uniforms, shoes, and equipment
Separation from neighborhood friends and immediate family members who do not travel
Physical and psychological strain on kids can lead to burn out
Limits exposure to and involvement in other sports and activities
Intimidating, competitive environment for young kids, especially those who travel in car pools without their own parents or family
Participation in a travel team does not guarantee college opportunities or success as a professional athlete
