‘Early sport specialization’ in our youth is sweeping America.
Generally speaking, this concept refers to a young athlete, usually junior high age or younger, committing to one sport – often to the exclusion of other sports and activities. Hence, playing a sport year-round – even year-round baseball in a cold weather state like Michigan!
This trend is largely driven by societal pressures to succeed, monetary gain by private travel leagues and clubs, the “dangling carrot” of a college scholarship and even the dream of a professional career in sports. Certainly more time, more money, more travel and more training will result in our kids’ ultimate success in the end. Or will it?
Let’s not forget that sports are great for kids. The benefits of an active kid involved in sports far outweighs the risks. But they key is sports diversity. Participating in more than one sport, or taking a 3-month hiatis from one sport, is recommended by every major medical society. This approach allows growing bones, tendons and ligaments to take a break from constant chronic stress. It also gives kids a mental break, provides them the opportunity to socialize with multiple group of friends, and avoid premature identity foreclosure. Plus, it makes them a stronger athlete overall.
While early sports specialization does provide some benefits such as structure, improved time management and talent development, we can’t ignore the issues. It has ramifications that traverse the musculoskeletal, psychological, and emotional spectrum in athletes whose bodies are still developing. “Burn out,” for instance, is a real phenomenon and affects nearly half of young athletes who are pushed far too hard and too early. Chronic irritations of elbow growth plates, from too much throwing, can bring an end to any young pitcher’s aspirations. ACL tears in young female soccer players who are playing to “win at all costs” could ultimately cost them a year off the field, in recovery. Playing the same sport year-round, without a break is not what the body is intended to do. In fact, a study shows athletes who specialized were 70 to 93-percent more likely to be injured than children who played multiple sports.
Parents, before you put pressure on your kids, I suggest you explore all of the pros and cons of early sport specialization. Let’s talk about the advantages of sports diversity. Let’s consider the reality of a college scholarship or pro career happening for your child. And finally, let’s talk about the true motivating factor for most travel leagues and clubs.
I will give you the “scoop,” from not only my experience as an orthopedic sports doctor at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons, but also a father – overuse injuries from specializing in a singular sport is a real issue that needs to be addressed and talked about more.
Perhaps after reading this piece, you’ll encourage your young athlete who’s committed to one sport to try something new this spring and mix it up – and that’s a good thing…
Dr. Joseph Guettler is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine, as well as surgery of the knee, shoulder and elbow. He is a proud member of the MOS team.