Too Much Too Soon!
Intense competition and early specialization can drive young athletes to the breaking point.
By Diana Olsen Friedman

His jam-packed schedule leaves little time for rest. And why would he want to slow down? Sean loves playing sports and is in it to have fun.
Even at a young age, Sean has not escaped unscathed and has had his share of injuries—a broken finger, fractured ankle and sprained knee. But he's resilient. "As soon as the cast comes off, he's ready to go," says Matt McHugh, his dad and coach of Sean's baseball team.
Sean isn't alone in the world of youth sports. In fact, injuries are becoming so common with preteen athletes that experts are concerned that sports are becoming increasingly dangerous for today's youth.