New program increasing the number of female youth coaches to keep girls involved in sports

New program aims to boost female youth coaches to retain more girls in sports. <source 99041998-ecd> Imani Pressley, a social worker and former star athlete at Boston Latin Academy, is spearheading the initiative. Pressley, who faced social and emotional challenges during her own youth, believes having a female coach made a significant difference in her life.

Now, she wants to replicate that impact for others. The She Coaches campaign, a project of Let's Play Boston, is partnering with the city's Human Services department to address the gender gap in youth sports participation. According to Jose F. Masso, Boston's Chief of Human Services, girls drop out of sports around age 12-13, so the program seeks to both increase access and retention for young women.

Research from the Women's Sports Foundation shows only 28% of girls' teams are coached by women, and having female role models can be transformative for young athletes. Track team members like Alexandria Pamphile and Naomi Castellanos praise the inclusive and supportive environment created by having female coaches. Even male teammates appreciate the change in perspective.

Coach Pressley's vision is to create a space where young girls feel valued and empowered, regardless of gender biases. The first round of the She Coaches campaign garnered 60 responses from local women interested in coaching, with plans to expand the program in early 2027.