DICK'S Sporting Goods Launches 'Play It Forward' Series to Empower Youth Sports Teams
- DICK'S Sporting Goods will launch *Play It Forward: Game On* on Nickelodeon, focusing on under-resourced youth sports teams.
- The series highlights the importance of equal opportunities in sports, featuring impactful transformations for youth teams.
- DICK'S Sporting Goods supports youth sports through its Sports Matter program and the GameChanger mobile platform.
DICK'S Sporting Goods Launches Inspiring Youth Sports Series
DICK'S Sporting Goods is set to debut its new unscripted television series, Play It Forward: Game On, on Nickelodeon on November 19, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (ET/PT). This innovative six-episode series emerges from DICK'S in-house studio, Cookie Jar & A Dream Studios, and focuses on uplifting under-resourced youth sports teams across the United States. The show features renowned personalities such as two-time WNBA champion Renee Montgomery, Nickelodeon veteran Kel Mitchell, and YouTube star Jesser, who work alongside local coaches and parents to orchestrate transformative makeovers for the participating teams.
Each episode highlights the journey of six youth sports organizations, showcasing teams like Blaze Sports wheelchair basketball team, Sporting Club Soccer Academy, and the Lady Vikings youth volleyball team, among others. Kristen Garmey, Director of The DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation, articulates the ethos behind the initiative, emphasizing the critical importance of equal opportunities in sports. Garmey states, "At The DICK'S Foundation, we believe in the power of sports to transform lives; and we know that not every young athlete has the same opportunity to play." The series not only aims to deliver memorable moments for young athletes but also enhances their experiences through the provision of new uniforms, training equipment, and field upgrades.
The production of Play It Forward: Game On underscores DICK'S commitment to community engagement and the development of youth sports. By blending heartfelt moments with comedic elements, the show showcases the profound impact of community support on young athletes. The series encapsulates the essence of teamwork, perseverance, and the joy of sports, resonating with audiences while highlighting the transformative power of athletic participation in the lives of underprivileged youth.
In addition to its television initiative, DICK'S Sporting Goods continues to demonstrate its dedication to youth sports through various community programs. The company has contributed millions to support under-resourced teams and athletes via its Sports Matter program. Furthermore, DICK'S manages a mobile platform, GameChanger, which enhances youth sports experiences through live streaming, scheduling, and scorekeeping functionalities.
With a strong presence in the retail landscape, DICK'S Sporting Goods operates multiple banners and experiential retail concepts, reinforcing its commitment to sports culture and community engagement while inspiring the next generation of athletes.
