Youth Sports Take Center Stage at RCX Sports Free Community Event
Chicago, IL (July 28, 2024) – Over the past two days, RCX Sports and the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center teamed up to host an exciting free community event in Chicago. With a shared mission of providing youth with access to sports, the event drew hundreds of kids who participated in a variety of activities, including NHL STREET, USTA, MLS GO, NFL FLAG, Jr. NBA Leagues, and MLB Pitch, Hit & Run.
Promoting Multi-Sport Engagement
Justin DelaCruz, Sr. Director of Brand & Programs at RCX Sports, explained the inspiration behind the event. “We wanted to showcase our multi-sport programs, and the Kroc Center in Chicago was the perfect venue. Our objective is for the kids to have fun and improve the accessibility of sports.”
The cost of youth sports has been rising steadily, making it challenging for many families to afford participation. According to a study by the Aspen Institute, the average family spends about $883 per child, per sport, each year. For some sports, like ice hockey, this number can be significantly higher, pricing out many low-income families and limiting access to organized sports.
Kenesa Debela, Kroc Senior Officer at the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, echoed this sentiment. “Bringing a variety of sports activities to our community, especially those they might not have access to otherwise, is a no-brainer. This event is about options and exposure, giving our youth opportunities they may not have had before.”
A Community Celebration
The event coincided with the Olympic Opening Ceremony, creating a festive atmosphere with a viewing party. Local organizations joined in, bringing mascots, food vendors, and a lot of enthusiasm. Each participating child received bags, water bottles, and t-shirts, which added to the celebratory vibe. Kids also got RCX Sports passports to check off each sport they tried, earning certificates at the end.
Encouraging Youth Participation
Maddie Molay from Athletes Unlimited Pro Softball highlighted the importance of getting kids involved in sports like softball. “We’re trying to help communities where softball isn’t as big, inspiring girls to go for their dreams and get involved,” she said.
C.J. Brown, former professional soccer player, assistant coach for the Chicago Fire, and Chicago Fire Hall of Fame inductee, emphasized the need for more sports programs, especially in underserved neighborhoods. “It’s about getting out with friends, developing character, and most importantly, having fun. More programs like this are needed to keep kids engaged and off the streets.”
Brown also shared the broader benefits of sports for youth development. “Playing sports helps kids learn to handle tough situations, manage their temper, and develop discipline. These skills are transferable to school, work, and everyday life.”
Building Transferable Skills
Marc May, a former NFL player and current assistant football coach at DeLaSalle High School, highlighted how flag football can be a great starting point for young athletes. “Flag football helps with mechanics without aggression. It gets kids interested in the sport, and I’ve seen players transition successfully to tackle football in high school,” May explained.
A Positive Impact
The event’s success showcased the powerful impact of providing youth sports opportunities. Kids were able to play, make new friends, and enjoy a supportive and inclusive environment. The collaboration between RCX Sports and the Kroc Center highlighted the potential for future events to grow even larger, meeting the community’s needs and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
C.J. Brown summed up the event’s significance perfectly: “Programs like this are critical. They equip kids with a range of skills, keep them engaged, and might even inspire the next Olympic athlete. The organization and enthusiasm from everyone involved were incredible.”
This community event was more than just sports; it was a celebration of inclusivity, opportunity, and the joy that comes with being on a team.
