MHS student-athletes launch 'Beyond the Game' to boost youth sports participation

A group of students in Medina High School’s senior capstone course is working to address a growing trend in the community: the decline in youth sports participation.

Through their project, “Beyond the Game,” the students aim to highlight the importance of athletics in shaping well-rounded, healthy and connected young people.

As part of the initiative, they are producing a short documentary featuring interviews with Medina students, athletes, coaches and alumni. The video explores how participation in sports fosters confidence, teamwork, leadership and lifelong healthy habits.

The project will culminate in a community event April 30 from 4:30-6 p.m. in the Medina High School gymnasium. The event is designed to connect families with local athletic opportunities and provide information about how children can get involved in sports.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet high school coaches and student-athletes, visit team booths and learn about various programs, including expectations, registration processes and costs. The event will also feature family-friendly activities such as cornhole, Kan Jam and Spikeball.

A central component of the event is a sports equipment donation and exchange drive that encourages community members to donate gently used equipment or exchange outgrown items. The effort aims to reduce financial barriers and expand access to sports participation.

“We wanted to show how sports can have a lasting impact on kids – not just physically, but in building confidence, friendships and life skills – and help more families find ways to get involved,” senior Brady Mullen said.

Families, students and community members are encouraged to attend and support the initiative to keep youth active, engaged and thriving both on and off the field.