After a Little League administrator embezzled funds, a New Jersey lawmaker has initiated legislation designed to bring more transparency to youth sports. And judging from a number of similar incidents that have made the news recently, it's an idea whose time has come.

Valdosta, Georgia, is a city that has reinvented itself and these days, as a haven for sports teams, it's making sure all venues are up to par. Among sports facilities receiving added investment and attention are baseball/softball diamonds, multi-purpose fields and tennis courts. In addition, the area's conference center, which in the past hasn't been used for athletic events, will now be looking to host appropriate indoor sports and activities. The year 2019 will bring 23 championship tournament diamonds -- the better to keep on welcoming the national and regional youth, adult and senior tournaments Valdosta has already seen. One of the most valuable amenities of all is a friendly hometown that embraces all those visiting teams. Meet Valdosta.

Maryland is the heart of sports and the place to play. With venues for lacrosse, basketball, soccer, beach volleyball, triathlons, martial arts, quidditch, cricket and more, we have opportunities for everyone not only to host their next event in Maryland, but to take it to the next level.

As varsity programs become increasingly competitive, college club sports are proliferating. The National College Club Football Association offers students a chance to play tackle football at the collegiate level. Along the way, it teaches commitment, responsibility and more. Meet the organization that is shaping leaders as well as athletes.

"You learn more from losing than from winning. You learn to keep going."

~ Morgan Wootten, one of the most successful high school basketball coaches in history