Too many girls in Canada are missing out on sports, research finds
New findings have emerged regarding the participation of girls in sports in Canada, revealing a concerning trend of girls falling behind boys in this area. The Rally Report 2024: A Call to Reimagine Sport So All Girls Can Play, which was released recently, sheds light on the disparity between boys and girls when it comes to engaging in sports activities. According to the report, 63 percent of girls aged six to 18 participate in team or individual sports on a weekly basis, compared to 68 percent of boys. Team sports such as basketball and volleyball, as well as individual sports like tennis and swimming, are included in these statistics.
The research was conducted by Canadian Women & Sport, a national non-profit organization advocating for girls and women in sports in Canada, in collaboration with IMI Consulting. A total of 2,068 girls were surveyed as part of a comprehensive study of Canadians in July 2024. Allison Sandmeyer-Graves, the CEO of Canadian Women & Sport, highlighted a prevailing sentiment among girls that sports are predominantly for boys. She emphasized that girls feel sports are not designed with their needs and interests in mind, leading to barriers that hinder their participation.
The report, which was funded by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, identified several obstacles preventing girls from engaging in sports, including time constraints, fatigue, injury, financial constraints, and lack of confidence. It is crucial to address these barriers to ensure that girls do not miss out on the numerous benefits of staying active through sports.
One alarming finding from the report is that the number of girls dropping out of sports increases as they enter their teenage years. Girls from lower-income families, regardless of their racial background, are less likely to participate in sports, especially if they have a disability. Sandmeyer-Graves emphasized the need for action from leaders in sports organizations to encourage girls’ participation in sports due to the physical and mental health benefits associated with such activities.
The report calls for increased investment in girls’ sports organizations, implementation of girl-centered coaching practices, and creation of safe environments where all girls feel welcomed and supported in sports. It also recommends educating coaches and activity leaders on effective communication with girls, providing leadership opportunities for diverse female athletes, promoting body diversity, and encouraging open dialogue to destigmatize the menstrual cycle in sports.
Additionally, the report revealed that girls face challenges related to body image, family support, and mental health in their sport experiences. Comments about appearance, clothing, or religious attire impact the participation of two in five girls, while half of the girls find inspiration from coaches and role models who represent diverse backgrounds. Family members play a positive role in the sport experience of nearly seven in 10 girls, and participating in sports positively influences body image for one in two girls. Furthermore, seven in 10 girls believe that sport and physical activity have a positive impact on their mental health, while nearly half of girls aged 13 to 18 feel that their menstrual cycle affects their participation in sports.
In conclusion, the findings of the Rally Report 2024 highlight the urgent need to address the gender gap in sports participation and ensure that all girls have equal opportunities to engage in sports activities. By implementing the recommendations outlined in the report, including promoting diversity, inclusivity, and affordability in sports programs, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment for girls to thrive in sports.
