LET’S GO
READY. SET. PLAY.
ESPN’s Take Back Sports and Disney Jr. Let’s Play! are teaming up with Every Kid Sports to help more families with preschoolers and young kids access sports, opening the door to more play in their communities.
ESPN has long invested in getting kids’ access to sports, and with that commitment, they launched the Take Back Sports initiative, aimed at helping kids and their families bring the fun back into sports. By partnering with Disney Jr., they are helping preschoolers and young children get in the game too!
WHY PLAY?
MOVE.PLAY. GROW.
The preschool and kindergarten years are a big time for kids to grow. They’re learning to make friends, build confidence, and take care of their bodies. Running, jumping, throwing, and dancing aren’t just fun, they help kids grow in big ways.
Moving early helps kids build strength and control
Sports and play help kids develop confidence and teamwork
Kids who move a lot when young keep moving as they grow
Kids who play sports tend to perform better in school
“Getting kids into sports early sets them up for more than just fitness,” said Kathryn L. Keough, PhD, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute. “It’s about discovering what they love, making friends, and learning to keep going.”
LOCATIONS
WHERE WE’RE PLAYING
Los Angeles, CA
San Francisco, CA
Fresno, CA
Houston, TX
Chicago, IL
Philadelphia, PA
Raleigh-Durham, NC
New York City, NY
ELIGIBILITY
IS YOUR FAMILY ELIGIBLE?
This program helps cover youth sports registration fees for families. Do you qualify?
✅ Your child is on SNAP!, Medicaid, or WIC
At least one program must be active at the time you apply.
✅ Your child is between 3 to 7 years old
Age is verified at the time of application.
✅ The sport is recreational — not elite or travel
Community leagues, parks and rec, school teams all qualify. Select/elite travel teams do not.
✅ The season lasts at least 4 weeks
One-day tournaments or short clinics are not covered.
IMPORTANT DATES
EVERY KID SPORTS PASS OPEN DATES
Fall Pass dates: June 23 – July 23
Winter Pass dates: October 27 – November 27
OUR 2025 IMPACT
1,234 KIDS TOOK BACK SPORTS
In 2025, this partnership helped 1,234 kids across Chicago, Miami, San Francisco, Fresno, Los Angeles, Houston, Raleigh, Philadelphia, and New York try sports for the first time.
THE STORIES
REAL FAMILIES. REAL EXPERIENCES.
Mickey Mouse surprises kids and teaches them the “Hot Dog!” dance from the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+
Sofia & Allison | Age 7 | Soccer – Houston, TX
“My little daughters almost didn’t like to exercise, their physical condition was not so good, they were so delicate and now since they practice sports their daily life has changed, they are more active, they love soccer, running and especially game days, they have related in a wonderful way, they have become strong girls!”
– Beatriz, Sofia & Allison’s Mom
Damion B. | Age 7 | Football | Houston TX
“My son Damion is 7 and has been playing football since he was 5. Damion loves playing football. Damion also enjoys being on the field with his football friends that’s also on his football team. Damion gained life skills from being on the football team he learned to work together with the others also he learned how to communicate better. Damion also makes sure not only himself but the other players also stay focused on school grades and behavior.”
– Conneisha, Damion’s Mom
Athena M. | Age 7 | Track & Field – Los Angeles, CA
“Sports—especially track and field—have made a powerful difference in our child’s life and our family as a whole. It has taught our child discipline, resilience, and confidence, while bringing our family closer through shared goals, weekend meets, and proud moments. Track and field has truly been a source of growth, joy, and connection for us all.”
– Ingrid. Athena’s Mom
RESOURCES
NEW TO SPORTS? START HERE!
What sports are best for preschoolers?
- Soccer: Fantastic for improving balance, foot-eye coordination, and cardiovascular health. Most classes for 3- to 5-year-olds are non-stop movement without strict rules.
- Swimming: An absolutely vital life skill that builds muscle strength and stamina. Lessons at this age focus on comfort in the water, floating, and basic paddling.
- T-Ball: Hits a sweet spot for kids who aren’t ready to track a pitched ball. Striking a ball off a tee and running bases helps teach basic spatial awareness and turn-taking.
- Gymnastics & Tumbling: Excels at developing coordination, agility, and flexibility. It allows children to practice running, jumping, and rolling in a safe, padded environment.
- Martial Arts: (e.g., introductory Taekwondo or Karate). Great for developing discipline, focus, and listening skills.
What should I expect from my child's first sports experience?
- Skill Building, Not Scorekeeping: At the introductory level, the primary goal is helping kids get comfortable with movement, cooperation, and basic athletic concepts. Don’t be surprised if games are non-competitive, have modified rules, or rarely track scores. The focus is entirely on keeping kids engaged and having fun.
- Shyness or Distraction: Your child may be hesitant, shy, or reluctant to join the drills on the first day. It’s also common for young kids to get easily distracted by parents on the sidelines or to simply watch butterflies during practice. Patience is key, and this behavior typically fades as they get comfortable with their teammates and coach.
- The Importance of the Coach: The first sports experience is often defined by the adult leading it. Look for coaches who prioritize encouragement, patience, and a fun view of the game rather than focusing heavily on technical expertise or winning. A great coach makes the experience feel like competitive play rather than “work.”
- What You Should Focus On: As a parent, the best way to support your child is by shifting performance expectations. Instead of focusing on scoring a goal or hitting a ball perfectly, praise their effort, attitude, and enjoyment.