$100 Cost To Play High School Sports Sparks Outrage Among Parenting Groups

How much should it cost to play high school sports in the United States?

Most, of course, would argue that it should be free. However, that's not the case everywhere. In fact, in one wealthy U.S. town, it's going to cost everyone at least $100 to play - and perhaps more.

A New Jersey suburb, the Bernards Township School District, will charge students $100 to play high school sports. Students will be charged $50 to play sports at William Annin Middle School and $100 to play sports at Ridge High School.

"Officials initially considered charging students up to $200 per sport or club. They also considered extending the fees to students participating in activities at the district's four elementary schools," NJ.com reported.

"Students at the middle school and high school will pay the same rate even if they participate in more than one sport or activity, officials said."

It's a wealthy suburb. The average household income was $194,000 in 2024. Certainly, most parents can afford the $100 fee.

But it's not just the $100 fee.

You're also going to be paying for equipment, shoes, rides, etc. on top of that. Those can add up quickly.

Parents express outrage over the $100 fee

"High school sports should not have a fee!" one parent said.

"It's not about if we can afford it or not. It's about what's right for everyone. This shouldn't happen," one said.

"It's ridiculous," another shared. "It's probably just going to keep going up, too."

"Would not stand for this if it happened in my town," another parent said.

The cost of youth and high school sports is just going to keep going up and up and up. Of course, most of these athletes won't even sniff playing in college. But that's not going to stop parents from paying up.

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This story was originally published May 12, 2026 at 6:29 AM.