A parent reflects on their experience navigating the world of youth sports—where what used to be casual games for kids has morphed into a high-pressure, hyper-competitive system. They admit to being "mediocre" in this environment, questioning whether the intensity and professionalization of youth leagues are really serving children—or just the adults running them.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a personal rant—it’s a relatable critique of how youth sports have shifted from fun and development to something that feels more like a mini-pro league. It matters because parents everywhere are grappling with the same pressures: Do we push our kids to specialize early? Is this system burning them out? And when did Saturday games start feeling like a job? It’s a conversation starter for anyone who’s ever wondered if we’ve lost the plot.