The Puerto Rico Legislature convened on June 14, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding youth sports and the implementation of a structured sports calendar aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of young athletes. The meeting highlighted the Department of Recreation and Sports' commitment to fostering a more organized, inclusive, and secure sports environment.

The session began with a reiteration of the department's dedication to using sports as a tool for social development and integral health. Officials emphasized that any measures contributing to a more structured sports system are welcomed. The discussion underscored the need for regulation to prevent over-participation and protect young athletes from excessive strain.

A significant point raised was the necessity for a unified sports calendar, which would allow for better scheduling of events and practices across various sports. This would alleviate the burden on parents and reduce the risk of overloading young athletes with too many commitments. The department noted that similar scheduling practices are already in place in educational institutions and called for sports leagues and clubs to adopt similar structures.

Concerns were also voiced regarding the alarming rise in sports-related injuries among young athletes. A study presented during the meeting revealed that a substantial percentage of injuries occurred during training sessions rather than in competitive play, indicating issues with training loads and preparation. The data showed that ankle injuries accounted for 35% of cases, while knee injuries and hand injuries followed at 17% and 13.6%, respectively.

In response to these findings, the department is evaluating a project focused on regulating practice schedules and ensuring that training plans are age-appropriate and safe. The meeting also addressed the need for better oversight of coaches and trainers, ensuring they are adequately trained to handle injuries and emergencies.

Legislators expressed concern over the commercialization of youth sports, highlighting that profit-driven motives can overshadow the welfare of young athletes. They discussed the potential negative impacts of excessive sporting events on children's physical and emotional health, as well as the financial strain on families.

As the meeting progressed, a resolution was introduced to investigate these issues further, aiming to balance the interests of sports organizations with the health and safety of young participants. The session concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration between the department and sports organizations to implement necessary changes and ensure the well-being of young athletes in Puerto Rico.