Athletes for Hope is proud to celebrate ESPN’s Take Back Sports initiative, a national campaign designed to make youth sports more fun, inclusive, and accessible for every child. The initiative unites athletes, organizations, and communities to create a better sports experience for the next generation.

We’re especially proud that Stephen Curry, an esteemed member of our Athlete Leadership Council, is serving as a Take Back Sports Ambassador. Stephen’s voice and leadership continue to amplify the connection between sport and service. Click below to watch Stephen’s powerful announcement.

Did you know that only 38.3% of children aged 6–12 play sports regularly, and 62% do not.

As part of the Take Back Sports initiative, ESPN has selected Athletes for Hope as a grantee to support our CHAMPS program, expanding youth physical activity and mental wellness in schools across the country. Grounded in values like Courage, Honesty, Accountability, Mindfulness, Positivity, and Strength. CHAMPS equips students in grades 2–5 with lessons in physical wellness, mental health awareness and leadership skills through an athlete-led curriculum. Since launch, the program has impacted over 220,000 kids monthly across 900+ schools. 

In the months ahead, our AFH athlete network will join the Take Back Sports campaign, bringing personal stories, social media activations, and calls to action to amplify the message, and continue advocating for positive, meaningful change in youth sports.

Together with Take Back Sports and our AFH athletes, we’re stepping onto a court, a field, and most importantly, the community to shake things up. Because every young person deserves a chance to play, belong, and thrive.