Quote:
Originally Posted by Flabbibulin
This is only an issue in less popular sports.
Will we ever have to argue in Canada about a lack of funding (corporate and federal) for hockey?
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Funny you should mention that. The guys on Primetime Sports had a very interesting debate going a couple days ago about how hockey is rapidly becoming a "rich mans sport" and a couple of people on the round table promoted greater subsidies for kids who want to play but their parents aren't able to afford the cost. They argued, quite convincingly, that cost is denying many thousands of kids the chance to play.
From my POV, spending on athletics is one of the most valuable social subsidies we can consider. We need to get as many people involved in sports as we can. Kids learn the value of teamwork, learn how to interrelate, learn the dedication it takes to be successful, and learn how to keep in shape. Active adults, likewise, are in better shape, and a healthier society reduces the burden on our health care system.
When our athletes win medals, it inspires people. It boosts the morale of the nation, and leads many kids to gain an interest in the sport we succeed at. This is a case where I think the public cost is very easily justified.