The FundPlay Foundation hosted the Congressional Youth Sports Fest on Thursday at the Rayburn Office Building. This event, held during National Physical Fitness & Sports Month, highlighted the transformative impact of youth sports in fostering healthy, resilient communities and promoting lifelong wellness.

The festival featured remarks from Representatives Marc Veasey and Jake Ellzey, co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Youth Sports, who have been vocal advocates for expanding access to youth sports programs.

“Youth sports are more than just games. They teach teamwork, discipline, and leadership,” said Rep. Marc Veasey. “I am honored to support this event and encourage my colleagues to join us in championing opportunities for all young people to get active and thrive.”

Earlier this month, FundPlay Foundation announced the integration of PLAY Sports Coalition’s advocacy efforts into its organization as a defined program called the PLAYS Initiative. The Congressional Youth Sports Fest will showcase tables from founding supporters of the initiative, including LeagueApps, TeamSnap, Players Health, and Triple Crown Sports.

Additionally, the event featured activations by the National Football League and Washington Wizards, alongside other leading organizations working to increase youth sports participation nationwide.

“We’re incredibly excited to host this year’s Congressional Youth Sports Fest and grateful for the leadership of Representatives Veasey and Ellzey,” said Jared Cooper, Executive Director of FundPlay Foundation. “Their commitment to expanding access and opportunity for all kids to play sports is inspiring, and together we’re building momentum to ensure every child can experience the lifelong benefits of play.”

FundPlay Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to equalizing the playing field for youth sports by ensuring all kids—regardless of background or zip code—have access to high-quality sports experiences. Through its three core program pillars—technology and data services, community-building, and advocacy—FundPlay Foundation empowers youth sports organizations, particularly those serving underserved communities, to streamline operations, collaborate, and unlock critical funding.

Since its inception, FundPlay Foundation has enabled more than 300,000 unique youth sports opportunities, granted free software licenses to over 225 organizations, and through its advocacy efforts, unlocked more than $35 million in youth sports grant funding—advancing a movement to make sports accessible for every child.

For more information on the Congressional Youth Sports Fest, visit FundPlay Foundation’s official website.