Girls, too, want to run, play and battle – to fall and make a comeback – to win. The world is full of hidden attitudes that have an impact on who ends up playing and who grows up to be a confident individual. It is time to make room for girls in the playing courts!
Practicing sports is one of the most efficients ways to build confidence, improve social skills and strengthen physical and mental well-being. Communal sports offer possibilities to experience success, learn team-work and create life-long friendships. Every minute spent in sports is time away from the screens.
Even though the benefits from sports are unquestionable, only 30% of girls are moving the recommended amount, the percentage decreasing to only 17% in under 15 year olds (according to a study focusing on sports behaviour of children and the young, LIITU 2022). In many ball games the girls are in a clear minority.
We have to work together in order to enable joy of playing and opportunities to everyone, regardless of gender.
PLAYING IS GOOD FOR GIRLS
- Strong self-esteem
Taking part in communal sports improves the self esteem of girls. One will learn how to appreciate oneself and see concrete examples of their abilities.
- A healthier mind
The community spirit and physical activity offered by sports diminish the risks of deppression and anxiety. Practising sports offers a way to relieve stress and increases the protective positive mind-set to the everyday life.
- Social toolpack
Children and the young learn co-operation, communication and conflict solving skills while playing with others – these are attributes that benefit all aspects of life.
- Co-operation that carries on
The sports communities and bonds created not only improve national health, but help to protect the minds of the young, which can carry throughout one’s life.
DO NOT BE AN OBSTACLE – GIRLS PLAY TOO
Stereotypes, economical barriers, attitudes and lack of role models prevent too many girls to find best suited places in sports for themselves. It is time to remove these barriers, because girls play too! This manifest invites sports clubs, schools, parents, decision makers and media to change the structures and culture so that girls will be able to feel that they belong to the playing courts.
- Bring out role models
Let the female athletes tell their own stories. Show admiration to the talent of a top-level athlete regardless of gender. It is hard to find healthier role models!
- Broadcast female sports
Put effort in promoting the success of female teams and players in the media and events. The media-time of female sports has a direct impact on how children and young people experience their possibilities.
- Create possibilites for everyone to play
Make sure that the costs and general conditions do not prevent participation. Develop appropriate coaching plans for beginners (girls and boys), as well as pathways between different sports.
- Root for girls
Strengthen and encourage girls the same as boys
- Spread the message: Girls play too
Any important or meaningful person can lead a girl to sports. It is good for the parents, coaches, teachers, care-takers and other meaningful people for the children to acknowledge that girls play too – and it’s good for you.
There is a place for girls in the playing courts – just like for boys. Let’s build a world in sports together, where every girl can grow into a strong, self-believing individual – in sports and in life.
Finnish Floorball Federation
Finnish Golf Union
Finnish Ice Hockey Association
Basketball Finland
Finland Volleyball Association
Football Association of Finland
Finnish Pesäpallo Association
Ringette Finland
Additional information:
Kimmo Nurminen
kimmo.nurminen@fliiga.com
045 276 0168
