The nikon D60 is a good choice for an entry-level DSLR,
the alternative is to choose the Canon D450, its closest competitor in price and features. The D450 has live-view and slightly more features albeit with a higher price tag.
there's also a newer version to D450, the D500

to read up more about Nikon D60, see a comprehensive review here
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond60/


for the area of photography you mentioned, namely sports, you need good telephoto zoom lenses for the job. The kit lens that comes with it might not be good enough. What's your overall budget like?