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New report shows girls' sports participation faces major barriers

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 30, 2026, 2:39 PM

Last updated Sep 30, 2026

New report shows girls' sports participation faces major barriers

Summary

A Women's Sports Foundation report highlights significant challenges that thwart girls' participation in sports. Released on September 30, 2026, the report indicates that while interest among girls aged 8 to 18 is comparable to boys, barriers such as cost, lack of programs, and visibility issues contribute to about 50% to 70% dropping out by age 14. The data is drawn from a survey of over 3,000 children and industry leaders, showing a persistent gap in opportunities for different demographics. Danette Leighton, WSF CEO, emphasizes the need to recognize unplayed interest and address systemic barriers to increase girls' participation in sports, particularly for Hispanic and Black girls who show regional disparities in access to organized sports.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•54% of girls want to play sports, matching boys' interest at 52%.
•47% of Hispanic girls have never played a sport.
•Roughly 50% to 70% of girls dropout by age 14.
•75% of Hispanic parents wish for more sports teams for daughters.
•The report calls for improved access and visibility in girls' sports.

Latest Updates

2:39 PMYahoo Sports — New WSF Report Shows Why The Women's Sports Boom Hasn't Reached Girls

What they're saying

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A new Women's Sports Foundation report finds girls want to play as much as boys, but cost, belonging, and visibility gaps push many out of sport by their teens.
— Yahoo Sports

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