The NCAA’s approval of new guidance on performance technology use this week offers a preview of questions that youth sports organizations will increasingly face as wearables, biometric tracking, and AI-powered analysis tools become more prevalent at younger age levels.
The guidance, developed after a May summit in Indianapolis, establishes three foundational principles:
- Performance technologies are just one tool (not a solution)
- They carry unintended risks including mental health impacts
- Organizations need written plans for data management, education, and continuous improvement
What the NCAA Guidelines Say
The NCAA Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports defined performance technologies as any devices that collect biometric or performance data. This includes wearables attached directly to athletes or equipment, as well as cameras, sensors, surveys, software, and mobile apps that monitor performance indirectly.
The guidance includes three types of statements: foundational statements (the most important takeaways), recommendation statements (general considerations), and strategy statements (for implementation). Key requirements include establishing written plans for technology use, educating relevant groups, managing and protecting athlete data, making informed purchasing decisions, and implementing continuous improvement processes.
The NCAA will begin educational programming at the 2026 Convention, with full consensus statements available in early 2026.
What New NCAA Wearable Guidelines Mean for Youth Sports
While the NCAA guidance applies only to collegiate athletics, the framework addresses issues already present in youth sports:
- Data Privacy at Scale: Youth sports operators using GPS tracking, heart rate monitors, video analysis platforms, or recruiting apps collect data on minors. The NCAA’s emphasis on data management plans signals growing expectations that organizations must document how they protect athlete information.
- The Mental Health Variable: If NCAA athletes with developed emotional regulation face mental health concerns from performance tracking, the implications for 10-14 year-olds receiving constant biometric feedback or video analysis deserve scrutiny. The guidance acknowledges what many youth sports operators have observed: more data does not always equal better development.
- Governance Gap: The NCAA now has structured guidance. Most youth sports organizations do not. As these technologies become cheaper and more accessible, the question is not whether youth sports will use them, but whether operators will implement them with appropriate safeguards.
What Comes Next
The NCAA will roll out educational programming starting at the 2026 Convention, with full guidance available in early 2026. Youth sports organizations watching this space should consider: Do we have a written technology use plan? How are we addressing informed consent with parents? What metrics actually serve athlete development versus organizational marketing?
The technology is not going away. The NCAA’s move suggests the conversation about how to use it responsibly is just beginning, and youth sports will not be far behind.
via: AB
YSBR provides this content on an “as is” basis without any warranties, express or implied. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability, or use of the information, including any images, videos, or licenses associated with this article. For any concerns, including copyright issues or complaints, please contact YSBR directly.
About Youth Sports Business Report
Youth Sports Business Report is the largest and most trusted source for youth sports industry news, insights, and analysis covering the $54 billion youth sports market. Trusted by over 50,000 followers including industry executives, investors, youth sports parents and youth sports business professionals, we are the premier destination for comprehensive youth sports business intelligence.
Our core mission: Make Youth Sports Better. As the leading authority in youth sports business reporting, we deliver unparalleled coverage of sports business trends, youth athletics, and emerging opportunities across the youth sports ecosystem.
Our expert editorial team provides authoritative, in-depth reporting on key youth sports industry verticals including:
- Sports sponsorship and institutional capital (Private Equity, Venture Capital)
- Youth Sports events and tournament management
- NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) developments and compliance
- Youth sports coaching and sports recruitment strategies
- Sports technology and data analytics innovation
- Youth sports facilities development and management
- Sports content creation and digital media monetization
Whether you’re a sports industry executive, institutional investor, youth sports parent, coach, or sports business enthusiast, Youth Sports Business Report is your most reliable source for the actionable sports business insights you need to stay ahead of youth athletics trends and make informed decisions in the rapidly evolving youth sports landscape.
Join our growing community of 50,000+ industry leaders who depend on our trusted youth sports business analysis to drive success in the youth sports industry.
Stay connected with the pulse of the youth sports business – where industry expertise meets actionable intelligence.
Sign up for the biggest newsletter in Youth Sports – Youth Sports HQ – The best youth sports newsletter in the industry
Follow Youth Sports Business Report Founder Cameron Korab on LinkedIn
Are you a brand looking to tap into the world’s most passionate fanbase… youth sports?
Introducing Play Up Partners, a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.
About Play Up Partners
Play Up Partners is a leading youth sports marketing agency connecting brands with the power of youth sports. We specialize in youth sports sponsorships, partnerships, and activations that drive measurable results.
Why Sponsor Youth Sports?
Youth sports represents one of the most engaged and passionate audiences in sports marketing. With over 70 million young athletes and their families participating annually, the youth sports industry offers brands unparalleled access to motivated communities with strong purchasing power and loyalty.
What Does Play Up Partners Do?
We’ve done the heavy lifting to untangle the complex youth sports landscape so our brand partners can engage with clarity, confidence, and impact. Our vetted network of accredited youth sports organizations (from local leagues to national tournaments and operators) allows us to create flexible, scalable programs that evolve with the market.
Our Approach
Every partnership we build is rooted in authenticity and value creation. We don’t just broker deals. We craft youth sports marketing strategies that:
- Deliver measurable ROI for brand partners
- Create meaningful experiences for athletes and families
- Elevate the youth sports ecosystem
Our Vision
We’re positioning youth sports as the most desirable and effective platform in sports marketing. Our mission is simple: MAKE YOUTH SPORTS BETTER for athletes, families, organizations, and brand partners.
Common Questions About Youth Sports Marketing
Where can I sponsor youth sports? How do I activate in youth sports? What is the ROI of youth sports marketing? How much does youth sports sponsorship cost?
We have answers. Reach out to info@playuppartners.com to learn how Play Up Partners can help your brand navigate the youth sports landscape.
Youth sports organizations: Interested in partnership opportunities? Reach out to learn about our accreditation process.
