The Camara de Representantes of Puerto Rico convened on June 14, 2025, to address pressing concerns regarding youth sports participation and the associated risks of overtraining among young athletes. The meeting highlighted the alarming rise in sports-related injuries, particularly among children, and discussed potential regulatory measures to mitigate these risks.

Key discussions centered on the excessive participation of minors in sports events, which has raised concerns about their physical and emotional well-being. Representatives emphasized the need for better scheduling and management of sports activities to prevent overloading young athletes. They pointed out that the current system often leads to conflicts in schedules, forcing parents and children into a hectic routine that can compromise safety.

A significant point raised was the alarming statistics regarding injuries among young athletes. A study indicated that 35% of ankle injuries, 17% of knee injuries, and 13.6% of hand and finger injuries occurred without direct contact, often during training sessions. This data underscores the necessity for improved training protocols and supervision to ensure the safety of young athletes.

The meeting also discussed the role of sports organizations and clubs in establishing clear guidelines for training and competition schedules. Representatives called for these entities to create structured plans that align with educational calendars, thereby reducing the burden on young athletes and their families.

In response to these issues, the Department of Recreation and Sports (DRD) is evaluating a project aimed at regulating practice and competition times for student-athletes. This initiative seeks to ensure that training loads are appropriate and that young athletes are not subjected to excessive physical demands.

Furthermore, the DRD plans to implement mandatory training for coaches on injury management and prevention, emphasizing the importance of proper supervision during practices. This initiative aims to equip coaches with the necessary skills to handle injuries effectively and to prevent them from occurring in the first place.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the impact of commercial interests in youth sports, as representatives expressed concern that profit motives could overshadow the health and safety of young athletes. The discussions will continue as the Camara de Representantes seeks to establish a framework that prioritizes the well-being of minors in sports.