AAU, more formally known as the Amateur Athletic Union, raises parents’ concerns as they see the prices that follow the organization. 

What is AAU?

AAU is what some would call the “gateway to success”. It’s a nationwide program that children under the age of 18 can participate in. For example, AAU Track & Field is a league where kids ranging from 2-18 years old can compete against other AAU teams in their state/county. Teams are usually active year-round, whereas regular high school/middle school track starts in the springtime, and stops during the summer, after States. At the end of the AAU season (which never really ends, just when meets tone down) is nationals. This is where athletes from all over the country gather at one meet to see who’s the best in the nation: the Junior Olympics. There’s more than just AAU track and field. There’s basketball, swimming, and really any other sport one could think of. Another program that’s similar to this is USATF. USA Track & Field has the exact same concepts as AAU, but it’s just the track aspect. It also focuses more on the Eastern side of the U.S, so traveling isn’t always across the country.

The Concern

So what’s the big deal? The program is innovative and gives youth the opportunity to build their skill and exercise their talent. Unfortunately, it still requires a lot of commitment. And with commitment, there comes sacrifice. Whether it’s travelling fees, uniform fees, entry fees to see your own child run, getting on the team fees, or $15 water from the concession stand fees, AAU is expensive, and it’s almost like… it doesn’t have to be. Parents often express their concern about the arbitrary expenses they must pay, even when they’ve already paid the initial fee of being on the team. Of course, parents will support their child and spend their money out of love, but sometimes, it gets to a point. 

“I think AAU is a fricken scam! There are admission fees, food fees, and random fees coaches add in with no explanation. Too many fees that don’t add up to the benefits. I think AAU should stop charging parents $500 to be part of the teams and start asking the individual teams to pay for that.” Chavonne Taylor, the mother of a Track & Field AAU athlete.