The Iron Mike Youth Sports Foundation's mission is to make participation in youth sports programs a reality for all children in a community, regardless of their family’s ability to pay. We believe that all children deserve to experience the positive and potentially life-changing benefits of playing sports. No child should be left on the sidelines due to the cost barrier of participation.

Children benefit physically from playing sports in countless ways including improved cardiovascular health, development of coordination, and the maintenance of healthy body weight. However, as research has clearly shown, the non-physical benefits are just as impactful. Participation in youth sports leads to higher academic performance, reduced behavioral issues, and higher self-esteem. There are innumerable life lessons learned from playing on a team at a young age that eventually translate into positive social skills and leadership ability later in life.