(April 29, 2025) – The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) and Good Sports are proud to announce the launch of the Restore Play Network (RPN) – a first-of-its-kind industry initiative designed to restore access to sports and physical activity in communities impacted by natural disasters, public health emergencies, and other crises.
“Physical activity is essential to mental health, resilience, and community healing. In times of crisis, sports can be a powerful force for rebuilding,” says Melissa Harper, Co-Founder and CEO of Good Sports. “Our work directly in the communities following such disasters, like the wildfires in LA, the hurricanes in the South, and the flooding in North Carolina, has been a critical bright spot for youth.”
The Restore Play Network is a collaborative effort that brings together the sporting goods industry to respond swiftly and effectively when crisis strikes. Through the combined strength of SFIA’s member companies and Good Sports’ proven distribution network, RPN ensures that young people can return to play as their communities recover.
“This collaboration between SFIA and Good Sports on the Restore Play Network is a testament to the power of the sporting goods industry to make a meaningful impact when communities need us most,” said Todd Smith, President & CEO, SFIA. “This initiative embodies the spirit of resilience and community support, and through this partnership, we are not just restoring access to sports and physical activity for young people, we are restoring hope and normalcy in the lives of countless children and families after unimaginable tragedy.”
When a disaster strikes, Good Sports will asses the impact on youth sports and play in he affected communities. Once equipment and apparel needs are identified, the RPN will be alerted. Members will be invited to commit resources, whether in-kind products or philanthropic support, and Good Sports will begin distribution throughout the communities. Organizations interested in joining the Restore Play Network can learn more and sign up at https://www.goodsports.org/restore-play-network/.
Media Contact:
Lisa Futterman | [email protected]
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ABOUT SFIA: The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), the #1 source for sport and fitness research, is the leading global trade association of manufacturers, retailers, and marketers in the sports products and fitness industry. SFIA seeks to promote sports and fitness participation, as well as industry vitality through research, thought leadership, public affairs, industry affairs, and member services. For more information, please visit sfia.org.
ABOUT GOOD SPORTS: Good Sports drives equitable access in youth sports and physical activity, by supporting children in high-need communities to achieve their greatest potential, on the field and in life. Since 2003, Good Sports has provided nearly $110 million in sports equipment, impacting over 10 million kids from more than 6,370 youth programs across the country. Good Sports has been awarded a coveted 4-star rating nine consecutive times from Charity Navigator, the nation’s largest charity evaluator, for sound fiscal management, transparency, and accountability. Additionally, Good Sports holds the top-level Platinum seal from GuideStar and is a Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance accredited charity. To learn more or to get involved, please visit www.goodsports.org and follow Good Sports on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.