The Real Impact of Social Media on Young Athletes
Winning or losing?

Social media has become an integral part of modern life, especially for young athletes who use it to showcase their achievements, connect with fans, and stay updated on sports trends. While platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter can provide tremendous opportunities, they also come with potential risks.

For young athletes striving for excellence, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of social media can help them leverage it effectively while avoiding its pitfalls. Let’s explore the pros and cons of social media use in youth sports.

Pros of Social Media for Young Athletes

1. Increased Exposure and Personal Branding

Social media allows young athletes to build a personal brand by sharing highlights, training routines, and accomplishments. College recruiters, professional scouts, and sponsors often monitor social media platforms to discover rising talent.

Example: Many college programs check athletes’ social profiles when considering scholarship offers. A strong, professional presence can leave a positive impression.

Tip: Use social media to create a positive digital footprint by posting training videos, game highlights, and sportsmanship moments.

Young athletes can follow professional players, coaches, and sports scientists to access valuable tips on skill development, nutrition, and injury prevention.

Example: Platforms like YouTube and Instagram have countless tutorials from elite athletes breaking down techniques, workouts, and recovery methods.

Tip: Follow reputable sources and use social media as an educational tool rather than just entertainment.

Social media fosters a sense of community where young athletes can engage with teammates, coaches, and fans. Seeing others' progress and success stories can be a great motivator.

Example: A volleyball player may join a global volleyball group on Facebook or follow hashtags like #VolleyballTraining to stay connected with like-minded athletes.

Tip: Use social media to engage in positive conversations and find communities that uplift and support growth.

4. Sponsorship and Career Opportunities

For high-level athletes, social media can open doors for endorsement deals and sponsorships. Brands look for young talent with strong followings who can positively influence their audience.

Example: Gymnast Olivia Dunne leveraged her social media presence to land NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, turning her brand into a business.

Tip: If aiming for sponsorships, keep content professional, engaging, and sports-focused to attract brands.

Cons of Social Media for Young Athletes

1. Increased Pressure and Mental Health Challenges

The constant need to post, compare, and seek validation through likes and comments can create stress and anxiety. Many young athletes feel pressure to appear perfect online, leading to burnout.

Example: A young soccer player might feel discouraged seeing others’ highlight reels without realizing they are only seeing curated, best moments—not the struggles.

Tip: Focus on personal growth, not comparison. Social media is a highlight reel, not reality.

2. Risk of Negative Publicity

One careless post or inappropriate comment can harm an athlete’s reputation, college recruitment chances, or sponsorship opportunities.

Example: A high school athlete lost a scholarship offer after posting offensive tweets that surfaced years later.

Tip: Think before you post! Follow the "Would I say this to my coach?" rule before sharing anything online.

3. Distraction from Training and Academics

Excessive social media use can reduce focus on training, school, and personal development. Many young athletes spend hours scrolling instead of practicing.

Example: Studies show that excessive social media use is linked to decreased sleep quality and attention span, impacting athletic performance.

Tip: Set time limits for social media use and prioritize training, recovery, and academics.

4. Online Harassment and Cyberbullying

Athletes in the public eye are more likely to experience criticism, negative comments, or cyberbullying, which can affect confidence and mental well-being.

Example: After missing a game-winning shot, a basketball player might face harsh criticism online, affecting their self-esteem.

Tip: Avoid reading negative comments and report/block users who engage in harassment. Surround yourself with a supportive digital community.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance

Social media can be a powerful tool for young athletes when used responsibly. While it offers great opportunities for branding, motivation, and learning, it also comes with mental health risks, distractions, and reputation concerns.

To make the most of social media:
Use it professionally to showcase skills and connect with positive communities.
Avoid negativity, cyberbullying, and unnecessary comparisons.
Prioritize real-life training, rest, and mental well-being over social media validation.

By striking the right balance, young athletes can maximize the benefits of social media while minimizing its downsides, ensuring both athletic and personal growth.

Coach Luc Tremblay is the Founder and Head Coach of Volleyball Winnipeg. Luc has been coaching volleyball for 30+ years with athletes of all age classes and all abilities. He has developed most of the training techniques used by VISION coaches and is responsible for the coach development program at Volleyball Winnipeg. For more details on our Coach Resources, click here. 
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