Pennsylvania Convention Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Conference: September 29 – October 1
Exhibits: September 29 – 30
REGISTRATION OPENS:
The first-ever Youth Sports Summit is set to energize the field at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference.
Photo courtesy of City of Perris (California) Parks and Community Services Department.
Join us for the first-ever Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation Summit at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia.
Together, we’ll explore emerging research, ways to strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and actions that revitalize recreation and drive meaningful, welcoming and transformative sports experiences for young people. Come ready to collaborate, share and learn. Leave with practical strategies, new connections and renewed momentum to advance the power of youth sports in your community.
Photo courtesy of City of Fort Worth (Texas) Park and Recreation Department.
Location: Philadelphia, PA (in conjunction with the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference*)
Dates: Sunday, September 27 – Monday, September 28
Cost: Member/Nonprofit: $160 / Nonmember: $220
Registration for the Youth Sports Summit opens Monday, May 11, at noon EDT. Space is Limited.
The Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation Summit is for anyone passionate about creating positive sport experiences for youth, including:
Photo courtesy of Neptune Township (New Jersey) Recreation and Public Works Departments.
The Summit unfolds during 1.5 days, blending inspiration, community voices and hands-on learning into a dynamic experience:
Sunday, September 27 | 3 – 6 p.m.
Kick things off with a high-energy welcome from NRPA and Philadelphia leaders, as well as sports champions. You’ll hear from community leaders, coaches, partners and youth athletes in dynamic panels highlighting our host city’s youth sports ecosystem. Wrap up the day with a social reception where you can connect with fellow attendees.
Monday, September 28 | 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Get inspired by keynotes, the latest research insights and candid conversations with leaders shaping youth sports through parks and recreation. Choose from panels and breakouts on fair and inclusive opportunities for all, coaching, belonging, facilities, recruitment, data, youth voice, partnerships and more. Close out with a unifying session with actionable takeaways to bring back to your community.
