This guide is designed to support the creation of the ICOACHGIRLS programs to (re)introduce girls to sport and physical activity, by providing 10 'girls in sport' elements for delivery partners to consider. The elements are not meant to be overly prescriptive rules - they are purposely generic as they are meant to be applied in relevant ways across national and local contexts. However, the overarching elements should be considered in the design of ICOACHGIRLS programs.

The elements are aligned with the ICOACHKIDS PLEDGE and structured around the Youth Sport Compass, a tried and tested framework for youth sports which provides direction on how to create a positive and safe sports climate. The Youth Sport Compass is built on four evidence-based pillars: the development-oriented, the motivational, the caring and the socially-safe climate. All four pillars must be considered to achieve the best climate in youth sport.

In this guide, each element is introduced and explained, and brought to life with some practical recommendations. In brief, the 10 Girls in Sport elements are:

DEVELOPMENT-ORIENTED

1. Focus on competence

2.Provide non-competitive activities

MOTIVATIONAL

3. Provide high support

4. Offer a variety of activities and variations

5. Use role-models

CARING

6. Promote friendships and social connections

7. Help coaches to understand girls’ needs

SOCIALLY SAFE

8. Create a positive, inclusive and welcoming environment

9. Provide girls only opportunities

10. Be aware of issues related to body image and act accordingly

You can DOWNLOAD THE FULL GUIDE HERE or via the dowloads section below.

You can also access and download the executive summary of this guide in English, Spanish, French, German, Dutch, Hungarian and Lithuanian. Simply click the language and jump right in.