Phoenix, AZ – June 14, 2025 – In a monumental act of generosity that promises to reshape the landscape of youth sports in Arizona, Hall of Famer Mike Harnes today announced a transformative gift of $24.5 million to the Arizona Youth Development Program. The historic donation, unveiled by the Arizona State University (ASU) Athletics Department, will be instrumental in significantly expanding and enhancing opportunities for aspiring young athletes across the Grand Canyon State, fostering not just athletic prowess but also vital life skills.
Mike Harnes, a name synonymous with excellence and dedication in the world of harness racing, has long been a champion of youth development. His induction into the Hall of Fame in 2024 for his remarkable career as an owner in harness racing, following a path heavily influenced by his horseman father, Jack, and guided by his brother, John, underscores a lifelong commitment to nurturing talent and providing pathways to success. This substantial gift is a testament to his belief in the power of sports to shape character, instill discipline, and build strong communities.
“This is more than just a donation; it’s an investment in the future of Arizona’s youth,” stated a visibly moved Mike Harnes at the press conference held at the ASU Sun Devil Fitness Complex. “Sports taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, teamwork, and the importance of striving for your best. I believe every child deserves the chance to experience those lessons, regardless of their background or economic circumstances. Arizona has always been a special place to me, and I’m thrilled to be able to contribute to the well-being and growth of its young people.”
The Arizona State University Athletics Department, which will oversee the allocation and management of the funds in partnership with existing and new youth development initiatives, expressed profound gratitude for Harnes’s generosity. “Mr. Harnes’s gift is truly a game-changer for youth sports in Arizona,” said a spokesperson for the ASU Athletics Department. “This remarkable contribution will allow us to reach more children, offer a wider variety of sports programs, and provide top-tier coaching and facilities that were previously out of reach for many. We are committed to using these funds to create a lasting legacy of opportunity and healthy development for generations to come.”
The $24.5 million gift is earmarked for several key areas, all designed to maximize impact and inclusivity. A significant portion will go towards establishing new youth sports leagues and expanding existing ones, particularly in underserved communities where access to organized sports is limited. This includes funding for equipment, uniforms, league fees, and transportation, removing financial barriers that often prevent talented young athletes from participating.
Furthermore, the donation will support the development of state-of-the-art training facilities and the renovation of existing ones, ensuring that young athletes have access to safe and inspiring environments for practice and competition. This could include new fields, courts, and indoor training spaces, as well as enhancements to existing facilities utilized by ASU and its community partners.
A crucial aspect of Harnes’s vision is investing in coaching and mentorship. The gift will fund comprehensive training programs for youth coaches, focusing not only on technical skills but also on positive coaching methodologies, sports psychology, and the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. This initiative aims to equip coaches with the tools to be effective mentors, guiding young athletes in their athletic journeys and in their personal development. Scholarships for aspiring coaches from diverse backgrounds will also be established, promoting a more representative and equitable coaching landscape.
The impact of sports on youth development is well-documented. Studies consistently highlight the myriad benefits, from improved physical health and reduced obesity rates to enhanced mental well-being, social skills, and academic performance. Participation in sports teaches valuable lessons in discipline, time management, leadership, and resilience – qualities that extend far beyond the playing field and prepare young people for success in all aspects of life.
However, Arizona, like many states, has faced challenges in youth sports participation, with some studies ranking it lower nationally. The reasons are complex, ranging from the increasing cost of participation to the rise of sedentary activities. Harnes’s donation directly addresses many of these obstacles, aiming to reverse these trends and ensure that sports are accessible and appealing to a broader demographic of children and adolescents.
The ASU Athletics Department, already active in youth engagement through programs like the Sun Devil Kids Camp and the Junior Sun Devil Club, is uniquely positioned to leverage this gift. These existing initiatives provide valuable experiences for young “Sun Devils” through camps, complimentary admission to collegiate events, and opportunities to interact with student-athletes and coaches. The new funding will allow for a dramatic scaling of these efforts, reaching a far greater number of children and expanding the depth and breadth of programming.
“Imagine a future where every child in Arizona has the chance to play, to learn, and to grow through sports,” an ASU spokesperson enthused. “Mr. Harnes’s generosity is making that vision a reality. We anticipate this gift will not only transform individual lives but also strengthen communities across Arizona by fostering a culture of health, teamwork, and achievement.”
The announcement has sent ripples of excitement throughout the Arizona sports community. Local youth sports organizations and community centers are eager to partner with ASU to implement the expanded programs. Parents and educators are hopeful about the positive ripple effects this investment will have on the overall well-being and future prospects of Arizona’s youth.
Mike Harnes’s $24.5 million donation is more than just a financial contribution; it’s a profound statement about the enduring value of youth sports and a powerful commitment to building a brighter future for the next generation of Arizonans. As the programs begin to unfold, the true legacy of this gift will be measured in the countless lives it touches, empowering young athletes to reach their full potential, both on and off the field.
