Private investment in youth sports draws state, federal scrutiny

By: Anna Claire Vollers

Outlets: Stateline

Published: July 21, 2026

Words: 1,753

Last Updated: 5 days, 1 hour ago

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Courtney Hamby and her husband spend close to $6,000 per year for their daughter Ellie’s cheer and tumbling classes, competition fees and uniforms.

That doesn’t include their travel expenses for multiple out-of-town competitions, including hotel rooms, gas, meals, and sometimes even flights.

“This should be something that everyone gets to play, and it shouldn’t be only the people who can afford it,” said Hamby, who lives in Madison, Alabama. “But if you don’t have money, …

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