Parents "Reclassifying" Their Children for Athletics & Sports - Is It Worth It?

Today more than ever, parents are 'reclassifying' their student athlete children.  Holding them back a grade, purely for the purpose of hoping the child becomes a better player in his/her sport of choice.  Most times, there are no academic reasons to do this - so why are so many parents doing it -- and, does it work?   Is it worth it?   Let us know your thoughts.