Mental Health

Student athletes are less likely than non-athletes to be depressed.*

Physical Health

Student athletes who play team sports are less likely to smoke cigarettes or use other illicit drugs.**

Academics

Physically active children get up to 40% higher test scores.**

Bright Futures

Student athletes are more likely to get higher grades and aspire to attend college.*

14% Inequality Between Incomes

There's a 14% disparity between incomes that earn under $25,000 vs. homes that earn $100,000 or more.**

1.2 Million Less Youth in Sports

From 2019-2022, 1.2 million fewer youth are participating in team sports.**

49% of U.S. Adults Experience Financial Pressure

49% of U.S. adults have struggled to pay for youth sports.**

25% of Non-Active Youth Experience Depression

25% of youth who are not physically active have reported depression and feelings of hopelessness.**

$100M

Since 2014, the Sports Matter program has committed over $100 million to inspire and enable youth sports participation by addressing barriers and creating awareness.

1 in 21 schools

1 out of every 21 public schools has received funding for sports programs from The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation.

2M+ Kids

Our support has kept over 2 million kids in the game across all 50 states through the Sports Matter program.

42 Sports

Because we believe all chances to play are beneficial, we have provided grants for 42 different youth sports, and counting!