Donald Deibler, a business owner and Business Manager of All Stars Ice Cream and Cafe Bakery in Hegins, Pennsylvania, is urging families, businesses, coaches, and community members to find ways to support local youth sports. Deibler, who grew up in nearby Donaldson, credits sports with giving him a positive focus during his youth and believes that providing similar opportunities for today's children is essential.
"Sports gave me something positive to focus on when I was younger," Deibler said. "If we can help local kids have those same opportunities, that matters."
Youth sports offer more than just competition. They provide a venue for physical activity, friendship, teamwork, and community engagement. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children and adolescents ages 6 to 17 get at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, which can improve bone health, cardiovascular fitness, and even academic performance. Organized sports are a common way to meet this guideline, but participation has been declining. According to data cited by the Aspen Institute, only 54% of U.S. children ages 6 to 17 played on a sports team or took lessons in 2022, down from 58% in 2017, and well below the Healthy People 2030 target of 63%.
Deibler, who volunteers as a youth sports coach and supports local programs like Tri-Valley Little League, emphasizes the importance of encouragement. "When you coach kids, you see how important encouragement can be," he said. "You want them to learn how to work together and keep improving."
He believes that supporting youth sports doesn't require grand gestures. Simple actions like volunteering at recreational programs, attending local games, coaching, helping maintain fields, or donating equipment can make a difference. Parents can also encourage children to find physical activities they enjoy, whether through organized teams or informal play, as the CDC notes that structured programs are not necessary for meeting activity guidelines.
Deibler's commitment to community extends beyond sports. He volunteers at St. Peter's UCC and is involved with Dead Horse Beer & Burritos, owned by his wife, where he often steps into the kitchen to help. "I've always believed that you have to be willing to help where the work is happening," he said. "It doesn't matter what your title is."
The decline in youth sports participation has implications for public health and community cohesion. With fewer children active, there is a risk of increased sedentary behavior and associated health issues. By fostering local support, communities can help reverse this trend, ensuring that more young people have the chance to benefit from sports.
Deibler encourages residents to contact local recreation programs, schools, churches, and youth organizations to identify needs. "You don't always have to do something huge to make a difference," he said. "Sometimes it is giving your time, helping a team, or just showing kids that people in the community care."
