Youth Inc. Recommends: Five Websites Every Youth Sports Parent Should Know About

Navigating youth sports as a parent can feel overwhelming at times. Between supporting your child’s dreams, keeping their well-being front and center and making smart decisions about teams, training and college, there’s a lot to learn—and a lot of pressure. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone. These trusted websites offer expert advice, practical tools and thoughtful perspectives to help you guide your child through their athletic journey with confidence, balance and joy. 

Changing the Game Project 

What it is: Founded by John O’Sullivan, Changing the Game Project is dedicated to putting kids first in youth sports. Through articles, videos, podcasts and resources for parents and coaches, they promote a healthy, development-focused approach to athletics. 

Why we like it: O'Sullivan's work is a breath of fresh air for parents tired of the pressure-cooker environment. His advice helps parents refocus on the real goal: helping their children find joy, growth and purpose through sports. 

Working With Parents In Sport

What it is: Led by Gordon MacLelland, Working with Parents in Sport provides resources, workshops and support for parents navigating the youth sports experience. They specialize in improving the coach-parent-athlete relationship, helping families and teams work together more positively. 

Why we like it: Youth sports should be about partnership, not conflict. WWPIS gives parents tools to stay supportive, manage expectations, and truly enhance their child’s experience—on and off the field. Although he’s based in the UK, Gordon’s tools and blogs are relevant for all parents.  

Aspen Institute Project Play 

What it is: Project Play is an initiative from the Aspen Institute that focuses on building healthy communities through sports. Their website offers cutting-edge research, tools, and strategies to help parents, coaches, and policymakers create better, more inclusive youth sports environments. 

Why we like it: Project Play is where big-picture thinking meets real action. For parents who care not just about their own child, but about the future of youth sports for everyone, this is an essential resource. 

Next College Student Athlete (NCSA) 

What it is: NCSA is one of the most trusted recruiting education platforms in the country, helping families understand the college sports process. They offer resources on timelines, eligibility, communication with coaches, scholarships and more. 

Why we like it: Recruiting can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time families. NCSA provides clear, credible guidance to help parents and athletes make smart, informed decisions about the next steps. 

I Love To Watch You Play 

What it is: Founded by Emmy Award-winning sports journalist Asia Mape, I Love To Watch You Play offers advice, insights, and real-world stories to help parents support their young athletes in healthy, meaningful ways. From mental health resources to recruiting tips to honest reflections on the ups and downs of youth sports, it’s a go-to resource for parents who want to get it right. 

Why we like it: This site brings heart, honesty, and expertise to a space that often feels confusing and competitive. It’s not about chasing trophies—it’s about raising strong, happy kids who love to play.