Donald Deibler, a business owner and Business Manager of All Stars Ice Cream and Cafe Bakery, is calling on families, businesses, coaches, and community members to bolster support for local youth sports. Deibler emphasizes that youth sports offer more than just competition; they provide young people with opportunities to stay active, build friendships, develop teamwork skills, and engage with their community.
Growing up in Donaldson, Pennsylvania, Deibler credits sports with giving him a positive focus during his youth. That experience shaped his belief in the value of teamwork, which he now applies both in his business career and community involvement. He volunteers as a youth sports coach and supports local programs, including Tri-Valley Little League.
The importance of youth sports is backed by research. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children and adolescents ages 6 to 17 get at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Regular activity supports muscular strength, cardiovascular fitness, brain health, and academic performance. Organized sports can be a key avenue for meeting these guidelines.
However, participation in youth sports has declined. According to federal data cited by the Aspen Institute, 54% of U.S. children ages 6 to 17 played on a sports team or took sports lessons in 2022, down from 58% in 2017. The national Healthy People 2030 target is 63%. Deibler believes these numbers highlight the need for increased local support.
Deibler encourages community involvement that doesn't require large-scale initiatives. His own efforts include coaching and supporting teams through his businesses, as well as volunteering at St. Peter's UCC. He also supports his wife's business, Dead Horse Beer & Burritos, where he is known for hands-on involvement, including helping in the kitchen when needed. He applies the same practical approach to community service.
“A business is part of the community around it,” Deibler said. “You have to remember the people who support you and find ways to support them too.”
There are many ways to support youth sports, such as volunteering with recreational programs, attending local games, coaching if qualified, helping maintain fields, donating equipment, or asking organizations what they need. Parents can also encourage children to enjoy physical activities, whether organized or informal, like walking, running, or playing at a playground.
“You don't always have to do something huge to make a difference,” Deibler said. “Sometimes it is giving your time, helping a team, or just showing kids that people in the community care.”
Deibler urges residents to look at what's happening in their communities and contact local recreation programs, schools, churches, or youth sports organizations to see where help is needed. Even small actions can help keep young people active and supported.
