If talent is evenly distributed but opportunity isn’t, who actually gets recruited? I sit down with our friend Francis Gonzaga to unpack how youth sports tilted toward pay-to-play—and how Level Play Foundation is working to bend it back toward merit, academics, and real exposure. From cross-country showcases during COVID to the quiet costs stacked on families today, Francis shares the hard math behind recruiting and the practical steps that give overlooked student athletes a legitimate chance.

I talk candidly about the numbers—millions of varsity athletes, but a small fraction moving on to college—and why finances slice those odds even thinner. Francis lays out Level Play’s focus on strong students with coachable habits who may not be blue-chip prospects but can thrive with the right plan. That plan starts with honest player assessment, not hype: identifying realistic fit, prioritizing the right camps, connecting with vetted coaches and strength programs, and shoring up academics with targeted tutoring. When an athlete keeps their grades up and brings real work ethic, access becomes the difference-maker.

What makes this conversation different is the emphasis on community over transactions. Level Play invites nominations from trainers, teachers, and coaches who see promise up close. It welcomes volunteers who can donate time or offer reduced rates. And it’s building a network that helps families navigate a noisy system with clarity and integrity. If you care about fairness in youth sports—or know a student athlete who deserves a wider spotlight—this story will give you hope and a roadmap.

Follow Level Play Foundation on Instagram (@levelplayfoundation), on X (Level Play FDN), and visit levelplayfoundation.org to learn more, nominate an athlete, or get involved. If this mission resonates, share the episode, leave a review, and subscribe so more families find the help they need.