October 2023 has arrived, and the Junior Racquetball Worlds/Esprit Championships in Tarija, Bolivia is just around the corner. It’s an exhilarating time, watching your child prepare to represent the USA on the international stage. The journey from hopeful beginnings to earning a place on the national team has been nothing short of remarkable.
As a parent, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity in seeing our child wear that national jersey. Reaching the Racquetball Junior Worlds Championship is an achievement that requires dedication and hard work, but it also comes with significant unexpected expenses. From the intricacies of travel and accommodation to the investments in training and gear, the costs can be substantial. During these times, our dear friends and family have shown unwavering support, which has made all the difference in this incredible journey.
Now, it’s time to make some crucial decisions, both in terms of time and budget. We must carefully plan our child’s time-off from school and negotiate vacation time, especially for those of us with salaried jobs. Then, there’s the matter of who in the family will be part of this exciting journey. As we embark on our second junior racquetball world’s trip, I would like to provide a high-level breakdown of our budget to offer prospective parents and players a glimpse into the financial considerations involved.
| Expenses | Amount $$ (USD) | (Y2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $1500 | ~approx round trip costs per person from Texas to Bolivia |
| Travel Insurance | $150 | – optional but highly recommended considering the current travel conditions – players travel insurance is covered by the USA team |
| Visa fees | $160 | – visa on arrival fee for USA travelers visiting Bolivia – some countries (like Guatemala) don’t require a visa fee for USA citizens – US Travel Info on Bolivia |
| Country imposed travel fees | $ 250 | – yellow fever vaccination costs; ranges from $225 to $450 per person in Texas – only Bolivia requires this (it was not a requirement for Guatemala) – check CDC Yellow Fever Vaccine |
| Player Entry Fees | $200 per player/ per division | This will be the individual player’s responsibility. Not covered by the USA team |
| Team Uniform | $300 per player | Depending on the sponsors, this could be covered by the USA team. |
| Hotel | $1500 | – for 10 days in a team assigned hotel – ranges from $120 to $160 per day (depending on the number of people per room) |
| Taxi / Uber | $200 | – could be lower or higher depending on what you want to do while in a foreign land |
| Meals | $500 | – again depends on individual preferences |
| Others | $200 | – gifts and other shopping supplies |
| Total for 2 (player + parent) | ~ $7000 |
The road to the Racquetball World Championships is not just about money; it’s about the love of the game, the dedication, and the experience that transcends any financial burden. We are excited and eagerly looking forward to this trip, thanks to the unwavering support of our local racquetball community, friends, and family. Their belief in our child and the journey of the USA junior racquetball team means the world to us.
This is more than just a journey; it’s a testament to the power of passion and community. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this remarkable ride!”