Finding players for a girls’ sports team can be one of the biggest challenges when you’re starting out. Whether you’re launching a new team or trying to grow an existing one, it often takes more than just putting up a post and hoping people turn up.
From my experience, the most effective approach is a combination of visibility, relationships and creating the right environment.
⚡ Don’t rely on one approach
One of the most common mistakes is relying on just one way of finding players, for example only posting on social media.
In reality, the most successful teams use a mix of:
- schools
- word of mouth
- social media
- local partnerships
It’s the combination of these that builds momentum over time.
🏫 Work with local schools
Schools are one of the most effective ways to reach girls who may be interested in joining a team.
This could include:
- delivering taster sessions
- running after-school clubs
- building relationships with teachers
Creating the right environment is key, as I’ve discussed in how schools can increase girls’ participation in sport.
👭 Create a welcoming environment
First impressions matter. If girls don’t feel comfortable when they attend their first session, they’re unlikely to come back.
Think about:
- how sessions are delivered
- how new players are introduced
- the overall atmosphere
Building confidence is a big part of this, which I’ve explored further in using sport to build confidence in girls.
📣 Use social media effectively
Social media can be a useful tool, but it needs to be used in the right way.
Instead of just posting once, try:
- posting regularly
- sharing photos and videos
- highlighting the experience, not just the team
Post in local Facebook groups, school parent groups or community pages where parents are already active. For more ideas, see how to promote your sports events.
🗣️ Encourage word of mouth
Word of mouth is often one of the most powerful ways to grow a team.
Encourage:
- current players to bring a friend
- parents to spread the word
- coaches to talk about sessions
This builds trust and often leads to more consistent attendance.
🤝 Build local partnerships
Working with local organisations can help you reach more girls.
This might include:
- schools
- community groups
- local clubs
Partnerships can open up new opportunities and help you connect with players who might not otherwise find your sessions.
🔄 Offer flexible ways to get involved
Not everyone will want to commit straight away.
Offering:
- taster sessions
- drop-in opportunities
- short programmes
can make it easier for girls to give it a try.
🧭 Provide a clear pathway
Girls are more likely to stay involved if they can see what happens next.
Think about:
- progression within your team
- links to other opportunities
- how players can develop over time
🎯 Be consistent
Finding players doesn’t happen overnight.
It takes:
- regular promotion
- consistent delivery
- ongoing effort
The teams that grow successfully are usually the ones that keep showing up and trying different approaches.
🎯 Final thoughts
Finding players takes time, but once you start to build momentum it becomes much easier. The key is to stay consistent, try different approaches and focus on creating an environment where girls want to come back.
