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March 29, 2024
In recent years, the sports world has witnessed a remarkable shift in gender dynamics, with female athletes being recognized as powerful influencers, especially among young girls. In fact, female athletes are highly influential in young girls taking up sport, according to a new study published by OnePoll, a quantitative research firm based out of England and the United States.
According to the England-focused study, 66% of girls attribute their inclination towards sport to the positive influence of female athletes. In addition, a staggering 72% expressed a fondness for playing sports, speaking to the boost in interest and participation of young girls in athletic pursuits. The statistics underscore the profound impact that women in sports have on shaping the aspirations and choices of younger generations.
The findings also made clear that female athletes serve as more than just athletic figures; they also represent inspiration and resilience. With two-thirds of the girls stating that seeing successful female athletes on the pitch or in arenas has increased their confidence, rising coverage in media and during athletic competitions is offering young girls relatable role models. Through their triumphs and setbacks, the athletes are imparting invaluable lessons on resilience, self-belief and the importance of chasing dreams.
“It’s amazing to be recognized as a trailblazer and hear how inspirational female athletes can be on the next generation,” said record-breaking Scottish Women’s rugby player and coach Donna Kennedy, who recently spoke during an event in Edinburgh where a series of statues celebrating female sports trailblazers were placed around the city.
“What we see around us, and what we’re exposed to, has a huge bearing on our development – and with women’s rugby in Scotland going from strength to strength, it is a great time to encourage more young girls to watch and play the game,” she continued.
Of the 500 youth aged 10-17 who were surveyed, 55% said seeing female athletes made them feel like they could do anything. Approximately 83% said the athletes are inspirational role models. When asked which athletes were most influential, the girls most often named retired British track and field athlete Jessica Ennis-Hill, British professional tennis player Emma Raducanu and English former competitive swimmer Rebecca Adlington.
The visibility of female athletes on various platforms, ranging from television to social media, is playing a pivotal role in empowering young girls and instilling in them a sense of belonging within the sporting community. Of the girls polled who watch sports, 65% said they have seen women participate in sports, while 46% have watched women and girls play in person. Over a third of girls believe there should be more female athletes shown in the media and on television.
By showcasing diverse body types, races, ethnicities and backgrounds, the athletes send powerful messages on inclusivity, encouraging girls from all walks of life to embrace their individuality and strive for excellence. However, it’s not solely high-profile athletes motivating young girls to embrace sports. Approximately 38% of girls surveyed said they are also inspired by the active women closest to them, including their moms, sisters, aunts and grandmothers.
Beyond the realm of competition, sports play a vital role in promoting long-term physical and mental wellbeing. By encouraging the sporting aspirations of young girls from an early age, female athletes are encouraging active lifestyles and shaping the next generation of athletes and leaders.
Source: The Daily Express
Photos: Sport England, PinPep
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