Youth sports have long been a staple of childhood, offering young athletes the opportunity to develop skills, make friends, and enjoy the camaraderie of team play. However, in recent years, the landscape of youth sports has undergone a dramatic transformation. What was once an inclusive, community-driven activity has increasingly become an exclusive, pay-to-play system that prioritizes profit over participation. This shift has significant implications for children, families, and communities, raising important questions about accessibility, equity, and the true purpose of youth sports.