Targeting sport specialization
A new campaign warns parents about the dangers for young athletes of early specialization in sport. Carolyn Townsend of Sport Nova Scotia says research has shown kids who focus too much on one sport risk an increase in repetitive injuries, can stunt their athletic development, and are at risk of dropping out by the age of 14 or older because of burnout. The campaign includes social media, billboards and a website with videos, information and a test parents can take to see if they are making the right choices for their child’s athletic development.