Sports medicine stats: Trends in single-sport specialization for youth athletes
Dr. David Geier is an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, South Carolina and Charlotte, North Carolina. He helps athletes and active people feel and perform their best, regardless of age, injuries and medical history. He has been featured in major media publications and shows over 2,500 times throughout his career.
A majority, in fact 77.7%, of high school athletic directors report an increasing trend in sports specialization. Further evidence for early sports specialization is the growing number of travel leagues at 7 or 8 years of age.
A study of US Tennis Association junior tennis players found that 70% began specializing at an average age of 10.4 years old. Specialization rate gradually increased after 14 years, with 95% of players by age 18 years. However, enjoyment and satisfaction ratings decreased in players older than 14 years old.
Through the stories of a dozen athletes whose injuries and recovery advanced the field (including Joan Benoit, Michael Jordan, Brandi Chastain, and Tommy John), Dr. Geier explains how sports medicine makes sports safer for the pros, amateurs, student-athletes, and weekend warriors alike.
A majority, in fact 77.7%, of high school athletic directors report an increasing trend in sports specialization. Further evidence for early sports specialization is the growing number of travel leagues at 7 or 8 years of age.