Recently, I have made a few posts about philosophy and ethics in the pursuit of excellence in Karate. Today's topic is a bit more on the pragmatic side of things: Affordability of Sports.
In recent years, we have seen significant rising costs of living in all areas of our lives, and this has also spilled over into sports and recreation. Unfortunately, rising costs have often put some sports out of reach for many children.
According to Solutions Research Group, the average Canadian family spent approx $2,500 per child (aged 13-17) for organized sports activities in 2022. This figured includes the cost of registration and associated sports equipment, but does not include travel and accommodations costs often associated with traveling team sports.
Contrast this with the relatively affordable costs associated with Karate classes delivered by top tier, NCCP certified instructors. At $104 per month, $70 average equipment cost, and $78 annual association fees, Karate on average will cost approx. $1400 per year. Coming in at $1100 less than the national average annual cost for organized sports means that students of Karate classes are getting exceptional value.
Even with this exceptional value in relation to the costs of other organized sports, the costs of participation in sports can still be a barrier to many families. To address this need, a number of charities operate with the primary function of making sports more accessible to low income families. As a member of Karate BC, PoCo Karate is an eligible sport activity for children in need of financial support to participate in sports.
Athletics for Kids: http://a4k.ca
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