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Luka Dončić Foundation Launches 'Stay in Play'

In a bold move to support the future of youth sports, the Luka Dončić Foundation officially announced the launch of 'Stay in Play', a three-year global program designed to help young athletes continue pursuing their sports passions despite financial constraints. The initiative has begun accepting applications as of June 24, 2026, and aims to bolster participation among youth aged 12 to 15—an age group where dropout rates soar due to financial burdens.

A Mission to Prevent Dropouts

The purpose of 'Stay in Play' is clear: to eliminate the financial obstacles that force many young athletes to quit the sports they love. The program will provide funding of up to $25,000 per athlete, aiming to cover expenses such as equipment, coaching fees, travel for competitions, and registration costs for leagues or tournaments. According to Luka Dončić, who founded the initiative, the objective is to inspire and enable kids to continue playing, recalling his own childhood experiences in Ljubljana, where basketball served as a vital escape and joy.

"It saddens me deeply to see children give up on youth sports due to circumstances beyond their control," Dončić expressed. "When I think about how my dreams could have ended without the right opportunities, I feel compelled to help ensure your average kid has the support to keep pursuing their passion."

Targeting Critical Ages

Research indicates that most children tend to leave sports around the age of 12—not due to a lack of interest or ability, but primarily because the associated costs become too burdensome. With this program, the foundation aims to step in during these pivotal years to ensure young athletes can continue to hone their skills, build confidence, and enjoy sports without financial stress.

Lara Beth Seager, Executive Director of the Luka Dončić Foundation, commented: "Financial hurdles should not dictate a young person's ability to engage in sports they love. This program is about ensuring that each child who discovers a passion can continue pursuing it, regardless of their financial situation."

Broad Reach and Flexible Aid

The application window is set to run until August 20, 2026, and the initiative is open to young athletes from various countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany, Slovenia, and several others. It supports a staggering 176 sports disciplines, ranging from basketball to gymnastics and swimming, showcasing flexibility in its assistance to cater to the unique needs of each applicant.

Given that every athlete knows their needs best, the foundation trusts applicants to communicate what will benefit them most through the funding. Seager elaborated, "We commit to empowering athletes by simply asking them what they require to sustain their engagement in sports."

Pursuing a Larger Vision

'Stay in Play' aligns with the Luka Dončić Foundation’s broader mission to reshape the culture surrounding youth sports. Since its inception in December 2024, the foundation has actively sought to understand and address systemic issues within youth athletics through reports, programs, and partnerships focused on creating significant changes.

Seager emphasized, "While we are dedicated to enacting long-term solutions, 'Stay in Play' represents immediate action. We want to support the children who need assistance right now, while we simultaneously work to face more extensive challenges in the sector."

How to Apply

Young athletes between the ages of 12 and 15 from eligible countries can submit their applications for the program via the official Luka Dončić Foundation website. The deadline for applications is set for August 20, 2026. Each application must be supported by a parent or guardian.

The first group of awardees is expected to be announced during the winter, as these funds aim to impact the lives of numerous children positively.

For additional details on 'Stay in Play' and other initiatives by the Luka Dončić Foundation, interested parties are encouraged to visit LukaDoncicFoundation.org or follow the foundation on social media at @LukaDoncicFoundation.

Thus, with 'Stay in Play', Luka Dončić not only honors his passion for basketball but also promises a brighter future for aspiring young athletes around the globe.