Girls in Sport: Best Practice Examples

Girls across the world face persistent barriers to participating in sport and physical activity. From limited opportunities and gender stereotypes to a lack of role models and confidence, the challenges are real—and the consequences are significant. Research shows that girls are far less likely than boys to take part in organised sport, missing out on the physical, mental, and social benefits that come with it.

At ICOACHKIDS, we believe this can—and must—change.

The ICOACHGIRLS initiative is designed to support more girls to become active and stay active, while also strengthening the number and confidence of female coaches. But what does good practice actually look like on the ground?

Drawing on international case studies and proven programmes, this article highlights key principles and practical strategies that coaches, clubs, and organisations can use to create more inclusive, engaging, and effective environments for girls.

Why Early Experiences Matter

Girls’ relationships with sport are often shaped at a young age. Negative or exclusionary early experiences can lead to long-term disengagement. On the other hand, positive, supportive environments can build:

• Confidence
• Motivation
• Physical competence
• A lifelong love of activity

This is where physical literacy becomes essential—developing not just skills, but also confidence, understanding, and motivation to stay active for life.

What Works: 10 Key Elements of Coaching Girls

Successful programmes consistently reflect 10 core elements, grouped into four areas:

1. Development-Oriented

• Focus on building competence, not just performance
• Provide non-competitive opportunities that emphasise learning and enjoyment

2. Motivational

• Offer variety and choice in activities
• Provide strong support systems, including parents and pathways
• Use relatable role models to inspire participation

3. Caring

• Promote friendships and social connection
• Help coaches truly understand girls’ needs and experiences

4. Socially Safe

• Create inclusive, welcoming environments
• Provide girls-only spaces where appropriate
• Be aware of and address body image and confidence issues

These elements are not theoretical—they are already being applied successfully across the world.

Learning from Practice: What Successful Programmes Do

Across different countries and contexts, effective initiatives share common traits:

They Make Sport Feel Accessible

Campaigns like This Girl Can challenge stereotypes by showing that sport is for everyone—regardless of ability, body type, or background. Representation matters.

They Build Confidence First

Programmes such as Weetabix Wildcats and Gaelic 4 Girls prioritise fun, friendship, and skill development in non-competitive settings—especially for beginners.

They Empower Girls as Leaders

Initiatives like PowerPlay and Girls Active give girls a voice and leadership opportunities, helping them shape their own sporting experiences.

They Support Coaches

Programmes such as Coaching HER focus on educating coaches about gender bias and girls’ specific needs—recognising that coaching quality is critical to retention.

They Create Safe and Inclusive Spaces

From girls-only sessions to inclusive programmes for girls with disabilities, successful initiatives recognise that one size does not fit all.

The Role of Coaches: Small Changes, Big Impact

Coaches are at the heart of change. Their behaviours, session design, and communication style can determine whether a girl continues—or drops out.

Here are some practical ways coaches can make a difference:

• Prioritise fun and belonging over competition
• Listen to girls’ voices and involve them in decisions
• Encourage effort and progress, not just outcomes
• Be aware of sensitive topics like body image and confidence
• Create a team culture where friendships can thrive

Even small adjustments can have a lasting impact.

Beyond the Session: Thinking Systemically

To truly increase girls’ participation, action is needed at multiple levels:

• Micro (individual): Positive experiences in sessions
• Meso (organisational): Inclusive club and school environments
• Macro (societal): Challenging stereotypes and influencing policy

The most successful programmes align across all three—creating pathways, support systems, and cultural change.

Moving Forward: Start Where You Are

You don’t need to implement everything at once. The key is to:

1. Reflect on your current practice
2. Identify areas for improvement
3. Take practical, realistic steps forward

Ask yourself:

• Are we creating a safe and inclusive environment?
• Do girls feel heard and valued?
• Are we prioritising development and enjoyment?

Case Studies

The case studies presented in this guide are:

1. This Girl CanTM
2. PowerPlayTM
3. Girls Active
4. UEFA Disney PlaymakersTM
5. Her Time to PlayTM
6. Coaching Her
7. Weetabix WildcatsTM
8. Dads and Daughter’s: Active and EmpoweredTM
9. Gaelic 4 Girls
10. Keep Up With the Girls
11. Adolescent Girls Get Active

Final Thought

Girls are not a single, uniform group. Their experiences, motivations, and challenges vary widely. The most effective programmes recognise this—and adapt accordingly.

By putting girls’ needs at the centre of coaching and programme design, we can create environments where they not only participate—but thrive.

And when girls thrive in sport, everyone benefits.