OMAHA, Neb. — Community leaders in Omaha are working to get more students off the sidelines and into sports, as cost and access continue to limit participation.
Former standout basketball player Josh Jones, who played at Central High School and Creighton University, is launching a new initiative aimed at increasing opportunities for students in Omaha Public Schools.
Demand outpacing access
New data from Aspen Institute’s Project Play shows about two-thirds of students in the district currently participate in sports. However, many more want to join but are unable to due to barriers like cost, transportation, and limited facilities.
“The supply isn’t meeting the demand,” said Jon Solomon, a research director with the initiative. “There is more interest to play if the costs were down, if they had transportation, if there were facilities.”
Cost remains a major hurdle
For families, the rising cost of youth sports can be a significant obstacle. One parent shopping for spring gear highlighted the challenge of outfitting multiple children, underscoring how expenses can quickly add up.
‘Fair Game Project’ launching soon
Jones says having the right support system can make a lasting difference in a young athlete’s life.
“I just had a unifying system and a pathway to be where I’m at today,” he said.
His new organization, the Fair Game Project, is set to launch in April, with the goal of making sports more accessible for students across the district.
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