Game On: How Central Florida Can Win at Sports and Champion Kids’ Mental Health

What if our community right here in Winter Park and across Central Florida could ensure that every child not only wants to play and has the opportunity to play, but also thrives in their mental health as they do? 

Join the Winter Park Health Foundation for an inspiring conversation with national thought leader and Emmy Award–winning former ESPN journalist Tom Farrey, now Executive Director of the Aspen Institute’s Project Play and author of Game On: The All-American Race to Make Champions of Our Children. 

In Game On, Farrey explores how the culture of youth sports shapes children’s physical development, mental health, identity, and sense of belonging. Drawing from his book and Project Play’s national data—along with insights relevant to the realities of youth sports in Florida—Farrey will unpack how playing (and staying) in sports builds confidence, resilience, and community connection well into adulthood. 

Together, we’ll look beyond the scoreboard to consider how coaches, parents, schools, and local partners can reimagine youth sports in Winter Park and the Greater Orlando area as a powerful driver of health, access, and long-term success for every child. 

Program Highlights 

• Presentation and Q&A: Tom Farrey shares key findings from Game On, exploring the intersection of youth sports, child development, and community wellbeing. Tom’s presentation will be followed by a moderated Q&A offering a Central Florida–focused conversation about how our region can strengthen mental wellbeing through youth sports.
• Youth Reflection & Wellness Activities: While parents attend the conversation with Tom, youth participants are invited to take part in facilitated mental health–focused activities and reflections led by counselors from WPHF’s CHILL program.
• Community Connection: Engage with local leaders, educators, coaches, and parents committed to building a healthier, more equitable future for young people. 

Who Should Attend 

Parents • Coaches • Educators • Healthcare Providers • Youth Organization Leaders • Community Advocates

Why It Matters 

This event is part of the Winter Park Health Foundation’s new strategic focus on Youth Mental Health, one of three core pillars guiding our work in 2026 and beyond. Through programs, partnerships, and conversations like Game On, WPHF is working to strengthen the systems that support young people’s mental wellbeing...at school, at home, and in their communities.