Last summer, the folks at Always launched Always #LikeAGirl – Keep Playing, focused on the link between sports and confidence. This year Always launched “50 Teams, 50 States” which has allowed them to provide crucial resources to teams around the country and contribute to the goal of keeping girls in sports. Hearing about the program, and its recent work with Taft High School girls basketball team, we invited them to share a guest post here on Family Friendly Cincinnati.
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Did you know that half of girls will quit sports by 17?
Girls who participate in sports report higher levels of self-confidence, but new Always survey data shows that nearly 7 out of 10 girls reported that they don’t feel encouraged by society to play. When the Always #LikeAGirl campaign examined where that feeling stems from – community support, parental encouragement, funding – they knew they needed to do something to keep girls in the game.
That’s why Always #LikeAGirl and Walmart teamed up to surprise Cincinnati’s own Taft High School girls basketball team this past Friday, November 11th as part of their “50 Teams, 50 States” program. The program provides a girls sports team in each state with needed resources to ensure that they can be successful this school year and beyond. The team was surprised with a facilities upgrade in their locker and weight room, in addition to some much-needed new practice apparel, just in time for their home-opener on November 28th.
The Taft team, led by Coach Rhonda Craig, is compiled of a group of confident, smart, dedicated and determined young women who deserve some extra support heading into their competitive season. These girls are succeeding on and off the court – even without all the resources that could take them to the next level – thanks, in large part to their fantastic coaching staff.
Coach Craig uses basketball as a tool of engagement. Sports is the focus but, throughout their season, she is giving young ladies exposure to a world beyond the classroom and court to better prepare them for their lives after high school. When the team isn’t showing off their moves in the gym, they are participating in community service and tutoring programs – all while maintaining the bond of sisterhood and the importance that athletics plays in that dynamic.
As a result of their contributions, Always #LikeAGirl and Walmart are doing their part to further Taft High School and Coach Craig’s efforts to help these girls’ build their confidence through athletics.
Learn more about Always’ #LikeAGirl
