Key Takeaways
- Youth Inc. will release a six-episode premium video podcast hosted by Tom Farrey, founder of the Aspen Institute’s Project Play, running from Q2 through Q3 2026
- The series examines proven, disruptive youth sports models that have made real, significant improvements in participation rates, athlete satisfaction, and holistic development
- The pilot episode, “The Volleyball Blueprint,” explores the growth systems behind boys’ volleyball expansion nationwide
- Youth Inc. reaches more than 65 million U.S. youth sports participants through its digital media network and e-commerce marketplace
- Each episode uses a 360-degree storytelling format, featuring interviews with multiple stakeholders to provide complete context on each model
- Sponsorship and partnership opportunities are available through Tim Murphy at Youth Inc. (tmurphy@youth.inc)
Series Format Centers on Proven Models
“Game On: How to Win at Youth Sports” moves beyond theoretical discussions to spotlight youth sports programs that have achieved measurable results. The series focuses on systems that communities can study and adapt, rather than aspirational frameworks.
Each episode follows a structured interview approach where Farrey speaks with multiple stakeholders connected to each featured model. This format aims to provide operators with detailed understanding of implementation, challenges, and outcomes.
“After decades covering youth sports, one thing is clear: the solutions already exist—we just don’t talk about them enough,” Farrey said. “This series with Youth Inc. is my opportunity to leverage everything I’ve learned and help bring proven, disruptive models out of the shadows so coaches, leagues, and communities can learn from what’s truly working.”
The pilot episode examines boys’ volleyball, a sport that has seen notable participation increases at the grassroots level in recent years. The episode breaks down the organizational structures and development pathways contributing to that growth.
Tom Farrey’s Background in Youth Sports Reform
Farrey founded Project Play in 2013, an initiative within the Aspen Institute’s Sports & Society Program. Project Play’s strategies have influenced policy changes at federal and county government levels and helped shape more than $60 million in foundation grants for grassroots programs.
His 2008 book, “Game On: The All-American Race to Make Champions of Our Children,” continues to be used in university curricula. Before launching Project Play, Farrey worked as an investigative journalist at ESPN for two decades, earning two Sports Journalism Emmys and a 2014 Alfred I. duPont/Columbia University Award.
The Sports & Society Program, which Farrey has directed since 2011, convenes leaders and facilitates dialogue on issues including college sports reform, athlete advocacy, and climate change’s impact on sports infrastructure.
Youth Inc. Platform Expansion
Youth Inc. started as a podcast and has grown into a digital media network and e-commerce marketplace for youth sports families, coaches, and athletes. Former NFL player and broadcaster Greg Olsen founded the platform.
“Youth Inc. was built to be part of the solution in youth sports, and Tom Farrey has embodied that mindset long before we ever launched,” Olsen said. “He’s been a guide, a sounding board, and a constant reminder that real progress comes from sharing what works. We’re thrilled to welcome Tom to the platform and help amplify the best practices that can expand access, grow participation, and positively shape the lives of millions of kids.”
The company provides content and direct access to branded gear and apparel for its network of participants and their families. The partnership with Farrey marks Youth Inc.’s move into premium documentary-style content focused on structural issues in youth sports development.
Partnership Opportunities
Youth Inc. is seeking sponsors and partners for the series. Companies and organizations interested in supporting the project can contact Tim Murphy at Youth Inc., at tmurphy@youth.inc.
Looking Ahead
The series arrives as youth sports organizations face ongoing questions about athlete retention, program accessibility, and development models. By documenting what has worked in specific contexts, the show provides operators with case studies that include both implementation details and outcome data.
The Q2-Q3 2026 release timeline positions the series for summer viewing, when many youth sports organizations conduct annual planning and evaluate program structures for the following year.
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