As our economy increases to higher prices, so does the equipment for athletes. Every year athletes have to pay extensive costs for a variety of equipment essentials for performance and safety. This growing financial strain affects athletes at all levels, making it increasingly challenging to pursue their passion without significant financial support.
“If you play softball, the equipment you need to play includes a bat for at least $300-$400 depending on what brand you buy,” Audrey McCarley(‘28) said. “Mits could range from $300-$350. Helmets could cost around $75, with batting gloves for $20, and cleats for $100. So the cost for just one year would be around $950, which has gone up a lot over the years,” McCarley said.
On top of all the required purchases for softball, just like any other sport, a lot of the time commitment is included in training and practice. A great way to save money on equipment can be to maintain your gear and not let it sit in dirt and sweat. It’s very important to take good care of the equipment so that it can last as long as possible to keep the cost down.
“I think that it’s important to take care of your equipment whether you pay for it or not,” Nate Sisler(‘28) said. The longer the equipment lasts, the fewer costs you will have. The equipment we use for football is expensive and has to last more than one year, even though the school provides the basic equipment there are still costs like practice jerseys and cleats etc.” (‘28) Nate Sisler said.
More athletes maintaining their equipment can positively affect the school to save money on replacements. This budget can help fund more free sports programs giving athletes better opportunities.
“I think that it is important that schools have free sports programs so that it provides more opportunities for families on a fixed income that can’t afford to play a sport,” Lucy Johnson(‘28) said. “In my opinion, the school should have more free sports and use boosters or fundraisers to pay for sports costs instead of making athletes pay.”
Having more free sports gives more opportunities for students to engage in physical activities, develop teamwork skills, and build a sense of community. Beyond these benefits, participating in a sport can also lead to happier and more enjoyable school experiences. When students have access to activities, they are more likely to feel connected to school life and have the motivation to go throughout the day with a better attitude.
“As a multi-sport athlete, keeping active helps me stay organized and have a consistent routine,” McCarley said. Especially during the winter a lot of kids will get stressed or unmotivated during school and it’s important to participate because it is a great way to take a break from academics and stay positive.”
When doing any sport it is always important to keep a good attitude and keep your head up even when going through something major or that is hard to get back up from. For instance, Johnson went through a major knee injury and had to end up switching sports. Switching sports and positions also came with a price change. Johnson was playing goalie for field hockey which required a significant investment, and then she switched to ice hockey, which required a lot more equipment and money. Having to make this drastic change was very impactful, and having a positive attitude helped her adapt to a new environment.
“Having a good attitude through my injury and change in sports helped me view the opportunity I had,” Johnson said, “However if hockey costs too much I won’t be able to play another sport. Not only is it important that I had this opportunity but all athletes should have this opportunity just like I did.”
