Illinois Passes ‘Right to Play’ Rule for High School Athletes in Club Sports

If you're a sports parent in Illinois, you've probably heard the phrase "pick one," as in, school team or club team, but not both. Thanks to a new rule change, that frustrating choice is finally off the table.

Finally, Illinois High School Athletes Get to Play... Everywhere

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For years, Illinois student-athletes have been stuck in a baffling catch-22: play for your high school or your club team, but you couldn't do both. Compete outside the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) season and risk being benched. Because, you know, nothing encourages athletic growth like punishing kids for... playing more of the sport they love.

But change is finally here.

MORE: 9 Best High Schools for Athletes in Illinois

Thanks to a new agreement between Illinois lawmakers and the IHSA, high school athletes will soon be allowed to compete in non-school events during their school season without getting benched. The "Right To Play" act, pushed by Naperville-area Rep. Janey Yang Rohr, grants athletes two waivers per season to participate in club events, according to abc7chicago.com. This will be a game-changer for thousands of athletes across the state.

Rockford Kids Win, Too

Let's be honest, Rockford-area athletes aren't short on talent. Whether it's travel volleyball in Loves Park, elite soccer in Roscoe, or AAU basketball, club sports are serious business. And now, local athletes won't have to choose between school pride and club exposure.

As a Sports Parent, I'm All In

I've got two young athletes in club sports, and by the time they hit high school, I'm thrilled they'll have the freedom to chase opportunities in both arenas. Finally, a rule that puts the kids first.