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Jul 13, 2026
Parents who divorce or separate generally have to learn to cooperate with each other. They typically share not just time spent with their children but also responsibility for them. That responsibility may include the need to make certain parenting decisions.
Adults choose what doctor sees a child and what treatment they receive. They decide when and where to enroll children in school. Those choices can have a major influence on a child’s quality of life and their future opportunities. Many teenagers and even middle school students want to participate in organized sports. They may join a school team or a local league.
Generally, parents need to give their consent for their children to participate in athletic activities. What if co-parents don’t agree about a child’s participation in sports?
Parents usually have to agree
Sharing decision-making authority puts a bit of pressure on co-parents. They have an obligation to work with each other to reach agreements about how they raise their children. When they don’t agree, they may need to sit down and negotiate with each other. A review of their current custody arrangements may be necessary. In some scenarios, they may need to take the issue back to court if they cannot reach an amicable solution.
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What influences a parent’s perspective?
When handling disputes related to decision-making authority, it is beneficial to try to understand the perspective of the other parent. Perhaps their concern is about the possibility of injury. Sports that involve physical contact, including rugby, football, and hockey may be of particular concern. Other times, the issue may be that a child has struggled academically. Parents may worry that further dividing their time and attention could worsen their performance in class. Concerns about bullying, expenses or a reduction in parenting time may also drive the dispute.
Ideally, conversations between parents could lead to them reaching a compromise. They might agree to allow the child to participate in specific sports or after they reach a certain age. They might also agree to uphold certain standards regarding a child’s academic performance when making choices about sports involvement.
If they truly cannot resolve the matter between themselves, then they may need to take the issue to family court. A family law judge can rule on decision-making matters based on what they believe is in the best interests of a child. They could settle the matter by making a decision about a specific issue or changing the allocation of decision-making authority.
Understanding the rules that govern parenting disputes that can help adults who find themselves disagreeing about athletic activity for their children. Parents who focus on what is best for their children may have an easier time compromising and resolving their custody-related disagreements.
FAQs
Can sports costs be included in child support in Louisiana?
Yes, certain extracurricular expenses may be added to basic child support in Louisiana when the court finds them appropriate. That can include league fees, equipment, uniforms, travel, or related activity costs depending on the circumstances.
Can one parent sign a child up for sports without the other parent’s consent?
Usually, not if the custody arrangement requires both parents to agree on extracurricular activities. If the order is silent or the parents share joint authority, signing a child up without consent can create a custody dispute. The safest approach is to review the existing court order before enrolling a child.
Who decides if my child can play sports after a divorce in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the answer usually depends on the custody order and whether parents share decision-making authority. If both parents have joint decision-making rights, they generally need to agree unless the court order says otherwise. Louisiana courts decide custody matters based on the child’s best interests.
Contact a Trusted Family Lawyer from Godley Law Firm
If you are facing a disagreement over your child’s sports participation, Godley Law Firm can help you understand your rights and options under Louisiana custody law. Contact Godley Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and get clear guidance tailored to your family’s situation.
About the author:
William L. Godley
Senior Partner at
Godley Law Firm
William L. Godley is a Senior Partner at Godley Law Firm in Lake Charles, Louisiana, focusing on complex family law matters. With experience dating back to his admission to the bar in 1989, Mr. Godley is a trusted advisor known for his comprehensive knowledge of divorce, custody, visitation, child support, and adoption law. He earned his J.D. from Southern University and his B.A. from the University of Southwestern Louisiana. His extensive background ensures that clients receive expert, well-informed counsel in sensitive legal areas.
