Donald Deibler, Business Manager of All Stars Ice Cream and Cafe Bakery in Hegins, Pennsylvania, is calling on families, businesses, coaches, and community members to support local youth sports. For Deibler, youth sports provide more than just competition; they offer young people opportunities to stay active, build friendships, learn teamwork, and become engaged in their communities.
Deibler's own experiences with sports during his childhood in Donaldson, Pennsylvania, shaped his belief in the value of teamwork and encouragement. He now volunteers as a youth sports coach and supports local programs like Tri-Valley Little League through his businesses. "When you coach kids, you see how important encouragement can be," Deibler said. "You want them to learn how to work together and keep improving."
The importance of youth sports is underscored by health guidelines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 get at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, which can improve muscle and bone health, cardiovascular fitness, and even academic performance. Organized sports are one way to meet this goal, but participation is not universal. According to federal data cited by the Aspen Institute, only 54% of U.S. children in that age group played on a sports team or took sports lessons in 2022, down from 58% in 2017. The national Healthy People 2030 target is 63%.
Deibler believes these statistics highlight the need for community involvement. He emphasizes that supporting youth sports doesn't require a large organization or major program. Simple actions like volunteering at recreational programs, attending local games, coaching if qualified, helping maintain fields, donating equipment, or asking existing organizations what they need can make a difference. Parents can also encourage children to find physical activities they enjoy, whether through organized teams or informal play like walking, bicycling, or swimming.
Deibler's philosophy extends beyond sports. As a business owner, he feels a responsibility to support the community that supports his business. He is also involved with Dead Horse Beer & Burritos, owned by his wife, where he takes a hands-on approach, including working in the kitchen when needed. "I've always believed that you have to be willing to help where the work is happening," he said. "It doesn't matter what your title is."
He encourages people to look at what's already happening in their communities and identify one local need they can help meet. "You don't always have to do something huge to make a difference," Deibler said. "Sometimes it is giving your time, helping a team, or just showing kids that people in the community care."
