The New York Times examines why U.S. youth soccer participation has fallen significantly. Pay-for-play and lack of outreach to minorities are two big reasons. The Aspen Institute Sports & Society Program Executive Director Tom Farre says data show soccer has lost about 600,000 participants since 2015, more than any other sport.
Youth Soccer Participation Has Fallen Significantly in America
Not having the American team in the tournament robbed officials of an opportunity to re-energize the sport among youth distracted by other diversions.
