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Canadian Girls Lag Behind Boys in Sports Participation, New Study Reveals

The Rally Report highlights barriers and calls for action to increase girls' involvement in sports.

Parents watch a Blue Bombers High School Girls Flag Football League game between Elmwood and CSLR in Winnipeg, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods
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Western Technical-Commercial girls' tackle football team

Overview

  • Only 63% of Canadian girls participate in sports weekly, compared to 68% of boys, according to the Rally Report 2024.
  • The study identifies barriers such as time commitment, cost, lack of confidence, and societal perceptions that sports are male-oriented.
  • Participation drops significantly in teenage years, with nearly half of girls missing out on sports benefits by age 16.
  • Girls from lower-income families and those with disabilities face greater challenges in accessing sports opportunities.
  • The report recommends increased investment in girls' sports, inclusive coaching practices, and environments that support diversity and body positivity.