Coaches at Torrington High School have noticed a subtle but steady shift in sports participation over recent years. While some teams still fill their rosters, others have seen fewer players showing up, and coaches find themselves working harder to keep motivation high.
Coaches believe the issue runs deeper than just the discipline and commitment required by teams. According to Coach Cahill, “Younger kids now are exposed to so much fast reward, even the videos they watch are all 30 seconds max.” This constant demand for instant gratification, he explains, makes it harder for young athletes to stay patient and committed to the long-term effort that sports require.
Even the Torrington Raiders football team, known for their strength and spirit, have noticed a decline in athletes. Coach Rusty stated that just a few years ago, the team had around 72 players, but now that number has dropped to the mid-40s.
When asked about the reasons behind this decline, Coach Rusty pointed to a familiar culprit: video games. He explained, “Video games are one of the causes. Kids like doing what they want to do and not being told what they should do.” For many young athletes, the immediate gratification and freedom offered by gaming can feel far more appealing than the discipline and structure that sports demand.
Other coaches, however, believe that video games are part of the many reasons why team numbers are falling. Coach Ferrante believes the problem runs deeper, arguing that sports simply aren’t taken as seriously anymore, largely because, as she explains, “not having any home games right now makes it hard to build that school culture.”
Without the energy and community that home games bring, it’s harder for players and fans alike to feel connected and invested. Coach Ferrante believes rebuilding that sense of pride and tradition is key to reversing the decline in participation and reigniting motivation.
One of the coaches, however, doesn’t believe that video games or motivation are the core issues. Instead, Coach Anderson believes it’s something more emotional, a loss of love for the game. “I really try to keep the love of the game alive,” Anderson said. “Some athletes have lost their love for the game, and that passion is really the most important part of sports.” Without that passion, Anderson explains, it’s hard for athletes to stay committed, push through challenges, or truly enjoy what they’re doing on the field.
The decline in sports participation and motivation at Torrington High isn’t due to a single cause. While some coaches point to video games and instant gratification, others highlight the loss of school spirit or, most importantly, the fading love of the game itself. What’s clear is that sports today face complex challenges that go beyond just numbers on a roster.
