From about the time my kids could walk, they have been involved in sports. Sports is a great way to give your kids exercise while teaching them valuable life lessons, but as Susan and I have found out over the years, when it comes to the cost of playing sports, not all sports are created equal. Here is a list of the sports our kids have played, along with the associated costs:
Soccer
The first sport our kids have learned to play is soccer. Now, I didn?t play soccer growing up, but soccer is great for the young family. For starters, it is such an easy game to learn to play. I coached Jacob?s team of five and six year olds earlier this year and my instructions were pretty simple: KICK THIS BALL INTO THAT NET. As long as they can walk and are not too directionally challenged, they can get the hang of it pretty quickly.
Another reason soccer appeals to young families is because it is a relatively inexpensive sport to play. Technically, all you need is a ball, which may run you $5 to $10 depending on where you go. If you are going to play in a league, the balls are provided, but you?ll need shin guards (about $10-$15). For the little ones, cleats are optional, but as your kids get older, you?ll need to purchase them. Some parents prefer to buy their kids new stuff every year or two, but I prefer to buy used equipment from places like Play It Again Sports. Some leagues even have an equipment exchange where parents turn in their child?s cleats after they outgrow them so other kids can use them.
As your kids get older, the cost of playing soccer can increase, especially if your kids want to play on a club team. Our local soccer club charges over $400 a year to play, but then again they are playing year round, so you may want to look at it as an investment.
Basketball
The next sport on our list is basketball. Similar to soccer, this is a fairly easy sport to learn how to play, and other than a ball, a net, and some sneakers, there really isn?t much of a cost associated with the sport. A good basketball could run you anywhere from $15 to $25, and if your kids decide to play in a league, you?ll probably want to get them at least a pair of decent high tops. If you are looking to save money, avoid shoes with signatures on them. A generic basketball shoe could cost up to $30, but a signature shoe could run up to $60 or more.
Baseball
Baseball, America?s favorite past time, is a great sport to play. However, it does take practice and some skill. ?The equipment is a little more costly because in addition to cleats, you will need a baseball mitt and most likely a bat and balls so you can practice at home; a batting glove is optional. If you have boys, you will also need protection for their manhood. All bats are not created equal and can vary greatly in price from $15 to over $100. The same applies to mitts, and don?t forget the glove oil to soften them up.
Football
Football is also a lot of fun. ?This year Jacob, our 6 year old, is playing tackle football. Finally, after three boys, Dad?s dream comes true. Our league provides the players with uniforms, pads, and helmets so, theoretically, all we need to buy are the cleats. But, Susan is a little nervous about our 48 pound boy playing in a league with boys who weigh twice as much, so now we are faced with another consideration when playing sports, the optional equipment.
Optional Equipment
Every sport has equipment that can enhance a player?s abilities or make it easier to play and these things can be very costly. For example, Susan purchased an extra padded jersey to go under Jacob?s regular football pads. Bam ? $60! She also wanted the practice pants with the pads sewn into them to save the time and frustration of trying to cram pads in and out of the team-issued pants before and after washing them, another $30. Be aware of the difference between wants and needs when purchasing equipment. Keep in mind that you can start out with the basics and as your child becomes more proficient in a sport you may feel it?s worth it to invest in some of the more specialized equipment that has a higher price tag. ?Just be sure they are going to stick with it before you buy.
Consider the league
Check out your options before you sign up to play because registration fees can also add up. In our town, we have a lot of choices for leagues. The city recreation league offers free registration if you live within the city limits; if not, you will incur a fee. The YMCA also offers team sports and you do pay a registration fee. However, if you are a member of the YMCA, the fee is reduced. Our children?s schools also offer sports programs which are parent run and generally have no registration fee except for buying a team t-shirt. Club sports are also available. Those registration fees are considerably higher and because most club teams travel, you should also factor in travel costs when budgeting for the season.
Lastly, when budgeting for sports, don?t forget about pictures. After all the time and money you have invested in little Johnny?s sports career, you will want to preserve the memories forever. You?ll need your checkbook ready when picture day comes around because your picture package options can run anywhere from $15-$100; that 8?10 photo mounted on the engraved trophy plaque doesn?t come cheap. If you have more than one child, picture costs can add up fast.
Sports are a great way for your children to get some exercise, make friends and learn team skills and life lessons that will benefit them for years to come. With a little information and planning, your family can have a lot of fun together, and it doesn?t have to break your bank account.
Source: http://www.financialfinesse.com/blog/2012/09/not-all-sports-are-created-equal/
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