|
|
     
|
Gender gap in urban youth sports: nobody wins - Jun 18, 2009 | 16:39:49
posted by: Molly Gallagher
Recently the New York Times reported on the gender gap in urban youth sports and, specifically, how young girls' participation rates in urban centers are far behind that of girls from suburban communities. According to a Women's Sports Foundation study, only 59% of urban girls between third and fifth grade compete in organized sport compared to 81% of girls in suburban areas. While female participation in sport increased nationwide by more than 20% between 1995-96 and 2004-05, the underrepresentation of the young urban female population is a disheartening reality. The Times' article points to lack of funding, opportunity and support at home as causes for this underserved population, but also suggests hope for what's to come. Organizations around Boston including the Boston Girls' Sports and Physical Activity Project, Sports4Kids, GoGirlGo! and MetroLacrosse have taken active roles in finding new ways to encourage girl's participation and shake up what are considered to be traditional gender roles. While these articles address what opportunities young girls and their families are missing out on, it fails to note what athletics is missing as a result of their absence. Our cities represent the most culturally diverse areas of our country. By failing to serve the female youth of our diverse epicenters, we fail to expose the rest of the female athlete population to the educational, social and cultural benefits of competing in a diverse field. Many point to expanding the types of athletics made readily available to young females as a solution. The Times cites Boys and Girls Clubs offering "girls-only play times," elementary and middle schools offering fitness clubs and high schools adding double Dutch as varsity squads.
CommentsI think promoting athletics to females is always a step in the right direction. I fully believe that any involement in athletics is a good thing and can lead to a very healthy, balanced lifestyle. However, I'm not sure a "girls only play time" is the answer. Something about it makes me feel off-balance. I wouldn't say that it is reinforcing the idea that only certain activities are intended for female participation, but it could certainly be interpreted that way. The reasoning behind the idea makes sense: a safe space for young girls to explore athletics without being made fun of for lack of skills, etc. But personally I can't see myself ever participating in girls only time. I would almost feel more embarrassed because I'd be acknowledging that I wasn't fit to play with the boys. Perhaps my perception is skewed because I did grow up with sports and consequently have a very intense competitive drive, but I just feel like there's a better answer. For now, however, any promotion of sports to girls is good. Post a Comment |
  
As an educator, umpire/official, ex college/professional athlete, and past coach I believe it is our top job to guarentee our athletes recognize it is education first and athletic success second.
- Nancy Aiken
   
|
