Women and girls in sport – Overview

Overview

The Alberta government recognizes that women and girls are under-represented in all areas of sport, as coaches, athletes, leaders, and administrators. For example:

• only 2% of girls ages 12 to 17 receive the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity daily
• only 19% of Canadian women participate in sport, compared to 35% of Canadian men
• if a girl doesn’t participate by age 10 there is only a 10% chance she’ll be physically active at age 25

To close the gender gap in sport, the Alberta government works with partners in the sport sector to build awareness, provide education and develop capacity so that sport is more representative and inclusive for women and girls.

Organization assessment

Consider the following:

1. Where are women underrepresented or at a disadvantage in your organization or its work?
2. Do your policies and practices ensure inclusion?
3. How ready is your organization to address these gaps?
4. How could improving participation and leadership of girls and women in your work produce new value for all involved?
5. What is your sphere of influence through which you can advance change for girls and women?
6. What help would you need to lead this forward?

To test your organization’s gender equity, see the Gender Equity Assessment Tool (PDF, 847 KB).

Programs

Canada Games Apprenticeship Program

Alberta Women in Sport Leadership Impact Program

Resources

InMotion Network

InMotion Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting physical activity for girls and women in Alberta. Their mission is to inspire and empower girls and women of all abilities in Alberta to participate in sport and physical activity.

CAAWS Women and Leadership Program

The Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS) offers the Women and Leadership Program. This program consists of a series of 5 professional development sessions that blend theory with practical applications, and provide an opportunity for women working or volunteering in the sport or physical activity sector to share experiences, reflect on ideas and apply specific techniques. These workshops are highly relevant for today’s young professionals and experienced leaders. The sessions also allow for networking opportunities among participants.

CAAWS Women and Leadership Workshops are eligible for NCCP PD Points.

For more information, see:

• Women and leadership facilitators
• CAAWS workshop calendar

Contact

Julie Hurd
Phone: 780-427-5132
Email: [email protected]