Parents have filed a federal lawsuit against youth sports travel company Team Travel Source, accusing it of misleading families into incurring hotel booking fees and higher lodging costs due to “stay-to-play” policies that link tournament participation to bookings through the company’s platform. The proposed class action, filed in Kentucky, involves nine parents from seven states, primarily related to cheerleading and volleyball events.
The lawsuit claims the company failed to adequately disclose mandatory fees and made misleading promises about discounted rates. Many parents reported being pressured to book through Team Travel Source under the false impression that their children could be disqualified if they didn’t.
Team Travel Source has denied any wrongdoing, stating that tournament organizers set the stay-to-play requirements and that its checkout process discloses fees prior to finalizing reservations. However, plaintiffs argue that the additional charges, sometimes applied per night for single reservations, are unfair.
The case reflects broader concerns about rising costs in youth sports, with an Aspen Institute survey indicating that family spending on children’s primary sports increased by 46% between 2019 and 2024. The parents are seeking class certification, damages, and legal changes to the company’s practices. Team Travel Source is currently requesting the court to dismiss the amended complaint.
