Is Early Sport Specialization A Good Thing?

Child on ball

The following NY Times article written by David Epstein reveals some interesting research on early sport specialization and how it relates to development and injury.

 

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/11/opinion/sports-should-be-childs-play.html?emc=edit_th_20140611&nl=todaysheadlines&nlid=33869644&_r=0

 

As an athlete that competed in multiple sports at a young age (swimming, martial arts, cycling, horse back riding, skating, and soccer) as well as high school varsity basketball through my senior year (age 17) I would strongly agree with this article.  The cross training enhanced my physical development, vision, and anticipation while also giving me a mental break from the pressure of highly competitive soccer. In addition over the past 20+ years as a coach I have definitely seen an increase in serious injuries/surgeries in the young athletes I train.

 

Just some food for thought to consider as you weigh your options as a young athlete and feel the pressure from your coaches to focus solely on one sport.