Creative Ways to Repurpose Sports Gear
Memory Makers
If you’re looking for creative gear repurpose ideas every sports mom will love, you’re in the right place. When kids join club sports, moms end up buying gear that’s only used for a single season — jerseys, backpacks, warm-ups, socks. Then next season, it starts all over again. Over 5 to 8 years, that adds up to a lot of gear — and even more memories.
Recently, in a popular Facebook group chat with other volleyball moms, the question kept coming up: “What do we do with all this old gear?” That inspired me to dig deeper, and here’s what I’ve personally done; along with useful ideas I’ve found.
Smart and Sentimental Ways to Repurpose Volleyball Gear
1. Turn Jerseys into Keepsakes
One of the most meaningful ways to repurpose old club jerseys is by creating a custom memory quilt. When my daughter graduated high school after years of club volleyball, I didn’t want her journey boxed up in storage. I surprised her with a quilt made from her old jerseys using a company called Project Repat.
Her face when she saw it? Pure joy — and maybe a few tears. Suddenly, memories came flooding back. Each square was a reminder of a different team, a different season, and a different version of herself. It became the centerpiece of her graduation table display at her party and sparked so many conversations. But the greatest compliment for me was when she decided to take it with her to college.
Other jersey keepsake ideas:
- Jersey Pillows or Wall Art: Great for dorm rooms or senior night gifts. These can be DIY or Etsy gifts.
- Autographed Display: Frame a signed jersey as a graduation or end-of-season gift- also an easy DIY project. (see end of article for Additional Resources section)
2. Repurpose Bags and Backpacks
Over the years, club volleyball families accumulate team-logo bags that end up shoved in closets. Instead of letting them collect dust, give them new life with these ideas:
- Emergency Car Kit: Turn an old backpack into a ready-to-go sports emergency kit — stocked with extra socks, knee pads, hair ties, snacks, and first aid supplies. Perfect for busy game days or long tournaments.
- Library Tote or Craft Bag: These sturdy bags are great for carrying books, crafting supplies, or even as a stylish reusable grocery bag.
- Donation Kit: Fill old duffel bags with essentials like hygiene items, school supplies, or gently used gear and donate them to local shelters, foster care programs, or community sports organizations.
3. Upcycle Knee Pads, Socks, and Small Accessories
It’s easy to overlook smaller gear. However, even knee pads and socks can have a second life:
- Knee Pads as Garden Cushions: Repurpose old knee pads as handy cushions for gardening or cleaning — surprisingly comfy and great for saving your knees!
- Old Socks as DIY Pet Toys: Tie socks into knots for a quick, no-sew pet toy. A fun, budget-friendly option for families with dogs.
- Ornament Keepsakes: Cut jersey patches or sock fabric into shapes, add a ribbon loop, and create custom holiday ornaments that celebrate your athlete’s journey. These make thoughtful gifts for family members, too.
4. Reimagine Old Balls and Equipment
Don’t toss old volleyballs, cleats, or other gear — get creative instead:
- DIY Trophy Decor: Spray-paint an old ball or cleats in metallic colors and use them as decorative “trophies” on shelves, desks, or in a game room.
- Autograph Ball: Have teammates sign an old ball as a special keepsake after the season ends. It’s a simple yet meaningful memento.
- Donation: Many local or international youth leagues, clinics, or rec centers would love gently used equipment. It’s a great way to give back and help younger athletes get started. When my daughter played some games in Brazil recently, she realized that the children loved all things USA and could use more volleyballs! It’s the number one sport in the country!
Other Upcycling and Repurposing Ideas
Host a Club Gear Upcycle Party
Gather your team families for a fun, meaningful event at the end of the season or before graduation:
- Swap Table: Set up a no-cost station where families can exchange gently used cleats, jerseys, bags, or accessories—perfect for passing hand-me-downs that still have life left.
- Craft Stations: Provide simple DIY projects like turning jersey scraps into pillows, ornaments, or keychains. Encourage creativity and connection while kids and parents mingle.
- Decor & Centerpieces: Make party décor from gear—an old volleyball stuffed into a vase, duffel bag tote centerpieces, or even a tablecloth made from a memory quilt. (Team moms – get together and do this as an activity before a big event!)
- Community Corner: Invite local nonprofits to take any unwanted gear, or include a collection bin so leftover items get reused or donated instead of thrown out.
Where to Donate Old Sports Gear
Give your gently used gear new life by donating to reputable and trusted non-profit organizations that support youth sports:
- Leveling the Playing Field – Collects sports equipment for under-resourced schools and community programs.
- Good Sports – Provides equipment, apparel, and footwear to kids in need.
- Replay It – Redistributes gently used sports gear to children around the world.
- Donate Sports – Accepts sports gear donations to benefit youth organizations, primarily in the New York area.
Conclusion: Repurpose, Remember, and Celebrate Every Season
From first tryouts to final tournaments, every piece of club and school sports gear holds a memory. Instead of letting it pile up, give those jerseys, bags, and accessories new purpose. Whether you create a memory quilt, donate to a local nonprofit, or host a team upcycle party, these ideas will help you celebrate your athlete’s journey in a meaningful, clutter-free way. Season may end, but memories live on.
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!
Have you repurposed your child’s old sports gear into something special? Share your upcycling stories or ideas in the comments below. Let’s inspire more sports moms to get creative!