ONE of Wales’ greatest-ever athletes and Chair of Sport Wales, Tanni Grey-Thompson, is calling on the next Welsh Government to adopt several policies which would, amongst other things, help to keep more girls engaged in sport and physical activity from a young age.

Tanni said: “We’re enjoying a massive summer of women’s sport with so many major events that are gripping the nation. There will be countless numbers of girls across Wales feeling inspired by new role models this summer, and that’s really exciting.

“Women’s sport is gaining more recognition, respect and momentum, with progress certainly being made in terms of exposure and visibility for women’s elite sport. But participation inequalities still exist.

“The simple fact is that fewer women and girls participate in sport than men and boys in Wales, and that has been the case forever.

“The gender gap begins in childhood, so it’s vital that we get more girls enjoying sport and physical activity from a young age and keep them coming back for more.

“At Sport Wales, we want this summer of women’s sport to be a watershed moment,” Tanni continued. “In the run up to the Senedd elections next spring we are urging political parties in Wales to include policies in their manifestos which will help to level the playing field for women and girls as well as supporting other groups of people who are currently under-represented in sport.”

One recommendation is to increase funding for sport in Wales so that it is comparable with similar countries.
Another recommendation is for Wales to have a completely new approach to young people’s engagement in physical activity in, and around, the school day, which in turn will support more girls to be engaged in sport.
Tanni said: “There’s a huge opportunity to ensure that not just women and girls, but the people of Wales as a whole are healthier and happier, simply by adequately funding sport to its full potential.

Tanni added: “It isn’t just about throwing extra money at the problem. It’s about using the funding wisely. We’re really enthused by the way our partners who deliver sport in Wales are working to break down the barriers that hold women and girls back and are creating sporting environments where everyone can thrive – whenever, wherever, however and for life. Increased investment would support even more of this work.

Moving on to discuss Sport Wales’ plans for schools, Tanni said: “We know we have a specific issue with girls not being active enough, but many boys aren’t getting enough exercise either. Kids need to be moving more and we must create a better infrastructure which allows that to happen.

“We’re developing an initiative to support schools in creating more opportunities for young people to be active throughout and around the school day, increasing skills and confidence in physical activity, and providing better connections with their local communities. This is particularly important for girls as our insight tells us that girls can lack the confidence to try new sports.

“The initiative would integrate sport and physical activity into young people’s daily routines, setting them up for a lifetime of healthy habits.”

Tanni concluded: “Having a fitter and healthier nation would also naturally create a bigger talent pool for nurturing elite success. If we want more success for our female athletes on the world stage, that begins with investment in grassroots opportunities.

“This summer of women’s sport has been amazing. Let’s build on this momentum and make lasting change.”