Empowering Girls Through Sports: 'Every Girl Moves' Event in Jersey

In a significant initiative aimed at encouraging female participation in sports, the 'Every Girl Moves' event was held on Monday at Les Quennevais School in Jersey, attracting around 15 local sports clubs. The event served as a platform for young girls to engage in various sports, thereby addressing the concerning trend of declining female participation in athletics as they transition into secondary education.

According to a report by the Youth Sport Trust, over one-third of girls in England and Wales discontinue playing sports by the time they reach secondary school. This alarming statistic underscores the necessity for initiatives like 'Every Girl Moves', which was inspired by 15-year-old Lauren from St Marys Youth Centre. Lauren initiated the event after recognizing the barriers that girls in Jersey often face when trying to engage in sports activities.

"Most girls want to be involved in sport but think it’s just for boys or face other stigmas," Lauren noted. She emphasized the importance of sports not only for physical health but also for mental well-being. "Sport really improves your mental health too, and more older girls need to stay active," she added, expressing hopes for the event to become an annual occurrence with increasing participation from various sports clubs.

The event featured sports ranging from netball to football, providing a friendly environment where girls could explore different activities without the pressure of competition. Orla, an 11-year-old attendee, affirmed the importance of physical activity, stating, "It’s really important to stay healthy - if you stay on the couch all day then you won’t be living for very long."

Mimi, a 16-year-old youth representative for Jersey Netball, participated actively in the event by demonstrating netball techniques. She remarked, "It’s a competitive sport but you have loads of fun too - everyone who plays enjoys it." Mimi highlighted a common barrier for girls in sports: the discomfort of playing in mixed-gender environments. Events like 'Every Girl Moves' challenge these perceptions and help build a supportive community among young female athletes.

The positive feedback from participants and organizers alike indicates a strong interest in promoting female sports engagement in Jersey. As Lauren hopes to expand the event in the coming years, initiatives like 'Every Girl Moves' could play a pivotal role in enhancing girls' confidence and social skills through sports. This aligns with broader efforts to foster inclusivity and accessibility in athletic programs, ensuring that all girls have the opportunity to pursue their passions in sports, thus contributing to their overall development and well-being.