PLAY

Girls Forward

Many girls say their main reason for playing sports  is to “have fun”. However, during adolescence, teenage girls often face challenges such as body image concerns, performance pressures, and peer influence that can deter them from staying active. In addition, there is a lack of female coaches to serve as role models and grassroots programs specifically designed for teenage girls to encourage  them to keep playing  and simply enjoy themselves. As a result, the dropout rate for girls in youth sports is more than double that of boys. 

To address this issue, City Parks Foundation, in partnership with Nike, is launching Girls Forward, a citywide initiative to  provide teenage girls ages 13-16 with a safe and empowering space to play and stay in sports. Dedicated instructional classes for girls in tennis, golf, track and soccer are led by female coaches at public parks throughout the 5 boroughs. Participants will also have access to special events, pro-clinics, motivational talks and workshops to develop self confidence  and encourage their continued  engagement in sports.

IMG_1573

New for 2025: Girls Forward – Spring Session

Girls Forward will launch this Spring with programs at select locations citywide. Girls are encouraged to register for multiple sports and share this opportunity with friends, family and schoolmates. Participating with someone you know increases the likelihood of staying engaged with the sport.

download (15)

Interested in learning more about or partnering with the Girls Forward program?

Contact the Girls Forward Program Manager elewis@cityparksfoundation.org.

Interested in working with the Girls Forward program as a coach?

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

SUPPORT CITY PARKS FOUNDATION

Because of you, NYC’s kids are learning how to protect our environment and being introduced to a new sport for life, community volunteers are transforming a green space in need of care, and free world-class performing arts are being brought to our parks all around the city—all for free. When you support City Parks Foundation's free programs, you are helping our parks, our communities, and our city thrive.