Grassroots sports clubs play a huge role in shaping girls’ experiences of sport and whether they stick with it for life. While many clubs genuinely want to attract and retain more girls, good intentions don’t always translate into a welcoming environment.
The good news? You don’t need a big budget or a full programme overhaul to make a difference. Often, it’s small, thoughtful changes that help girls feel like they belong.
Here are 10 practical, achievable ways your club can become more welcoming for girls, starting today.
1. Ask girls what they actually want
One of the simplest, and most overlooked, steps is asking girls for their opinions.
What do they enjoy?
What puts them off?
What would make sessions more fun or comfortable?
This could be as informal as a chat at the end of training or a short anonymous survey. When girls feel listened to, they feel valued, and they’re far more likely to keep coming back.
2. Use inclusive language (on and off the pitch)
Language matters more than we sometimes realise. Phrases like “guys”, “man on” or jokes that reinforce stereotypes can make girls feel like they don’t quite fit.
Try:
- Using gender-neutral language where possible
- Calling out stereotypes when they crop up
- Making it clear that respect is non-negotiable
Creating a culture of inclusion starts with everyday words.
3. Make sure girls can see themselves at your club
If all your photos, posters and social media posts feature boys or men, girls may assume the club isn’t really for them.
Simple actions:
- Share images of girls training and competing
- Highlight female players, coaches and volunteers
- Celebrate girls’ achievements as loudly as boys’
Representation sends a powerful message: You belong here.
4. Review kit, equipment and facilities
Something as basic as kit can be a barrier. Oversized shirts, ill-fitting bibs or a lack of appropriate changing facilities can quickly make girls feel uncomfortable.
Ask yourself:
- Is kit available in sizes that work for girls?
- Are changing spaces clean, private and accessible?
- Is equipment suitable for different ages and stages?
These details matter – especially to teenage girls.
5. Offer girls-only opportunities (where possible)
Mixed sessions work well for some girls, but others feel more confident in girls-only environments, particularly when they’re new to a sport.
If you can, consider:
- Girls-only taster sessions
- Beginner programmes specifically for girls
- Girls-only teams or training sessions
Choice is key. The more options you offer, the more likely girls are to find something that works for them.
6. Train coaches in confidence-building, not just skills
Girls often drop out of sport due to confidence, not ability. Coaches play a huge role here.
Encourage coaches to:
- Praise effort, not just performance
- Create supportive, mistake-friendly environments
- Be aware of how feedback is delivered
A positive coaching experience can be the difference between a girl quitting or thriving.
7. Tackle behaviour quickly and clearly
Unkind comments, exclusion or sexist behaviour (even if meant as “banter”) can have a lasting impact.
Make sure:
- Expectations around behaviour are clear
- Issues are addressed early and consistently
- Girls know who they can speak to if something feels wrong
Feeling safe is a non-negotiable part of feeling welcome.
8. Make joining easy and friendly
Walking into a new club can be intimidating, especially for girls who may already feel unsure about sport.
Think about:
- A clear point of contact for new players
- A friendly welcome at first sessions
- Pairing new girls with a buddy
First impressions really do count. We dedicated a whole blog post to them that you might find interesting.
9. Involve parents and carers
Parents often play a big role in whether girls join, and stay, in sport.
Help them by:
- Communicating clearly and regularly
- Explaining what sessions involve
- Reassuring them about safety, inclusion and support
Confident parents are more likely to encourage confident girls. We’ve got some great advice on how to work closely with parents and carers.
10. Keep reviewing and improving
Creating a welcoming environment for girls isn’t a one-off task – it’s an ongoing commitment.
Regularly check in with:
- Players
- Coaches
- Volunteers
What’s working? What could be better? Being open to learning and change shows girls that their experience genuinely matters.
Making your club more welcoming for girls doesn’t require perfection. Just intention, empathy and action. Small changes, made consistently, can transform how girls feel about sport and about themselves.
By creating environments where girls feel welcome, supported and confident, clubs don’t just grow participation – they help shape happier, healthier futures.
If you’d like support, resources or ideas to help your club engage more girls in sport, Sport Sister is here to help.
