Play HER Potential:

Keeping Girls in Sports


Our Challenge:

Girls ages 5–14 are leaving sports at concerning rates.

Causes:

Many face low self-esteem, limited access to opportunities, or a lack of mentorship.

Why This Matters:

Girls who remain in sports gain lasting benefits that strengthen their confidence, support lifelong health and wellness, and increase future success.

38%

of girls don’t participate in sports

Women’s Sports Foundation (Sabo & Veliz, 2008)

2:1 

Girls leave sports at TWICE the rate of boys by age 14.

Women’s Sports Foundation (Sabo & Veliz, 2008)

Community Events

FAQs

  • The program is built for girls ages 5–14. These are the years when confidence is formed, identity develops, and girls are most likely to leave sports. Our goal is to support them during this critical stage.

  • Confidence is one of the strongest predictors of whether a girl stays in sports. When girls believe in themselves, feel supported, and know how to handle challenges, they are more likely to stay active and continue growing.

  • Sports support girls far beyond the court. More than three-quarters of working women say sports strengthened their self-image, and 3 in 4 women believe being competitive is an asset in their leadership style. Girls also learn to appreciate the power of their own bodies, which builds confidence that lasts into adulthood.

  • No. The Playbook is designed for every girl, whether she is brand new to sports or has been playing for years. Each activity focuses on confidence, mentorship, and access, not skill level.

  • Schools, YMCAs, after-school programs, and youth organizations can request a workshop or schedule a series. Options include single-day sessions, mentorship visits, and full curriculum support. A simple request form is available on the site.