In a world that often underestimates women's leadership potential, sports have emerged as a powerful tool for breaking barriers and cultivating future leaders. The Play to Lead: The Generational Impact of Sport on Women’s Leadership report written in September 2024, by the Women's Sports Foundation reveals how athletic participation helps women develop critical leadership skills, leading to success in the workplace and beyond
Whether it's teamwork, resilience, or strategic thinking, women who play sports acquire qualities that propel them forward in their careers. In this blog, we unpack the report's findings and explore the undeniable connection between athletic experience and leadership excellence.
The Powerful Connection Between Sport and Leadership
For decades, women in leadership roles have pointed to their early sports experiences as a formative factor in their success. The Play to Lead report validates these personal stories with data, showing that sports provide opportunities for women to build confidence, learn teamwork, and develop problem-solving skills—all essential traits for leadership.
In fact, 94% of women in executive leadership roles have a background in competitive sports. This isn’t a coincidence. As the report highlights, participation in athletics equips women to navigate challenges, embrace competition, and cultivate a growth mindset—qualities highly valued in leadership.
Key Findings from the Play to Lead Repo
1. Sports Foster Confidence and Resilience
Sports teach women to face adversity head-on, whether it’s bouncing back from a loss or learning from a challenging game. Athletes develop a mental toughness that helps them stay focused on their goals despite setbacks.
As one participant in the study stated:
"I didn’t realise it at the time, but every match I played was preparing me to handle difficult situations at work. Resilience became second nature."
This resilience translates directly into leadership. Women with sports experience are more likely to persevere through workplace challenges, advocate for themselves, and take calculated risks.
2. Teamwork and Collaboration Are Second Nature
In any team sport, success hinges on cooperation and communication. Athletes learn to work alongside diverse teammates, which fosters an understanding of group dynamics and how to leverage individual strengths for collective success.
These skills are invaluable in leadership roles where collaboration is key. Women leaders who have played sports are often better equipped to manage teams, resolve conflicts, and create inclusive environments that encourage innovation and growth.
3. Sports Build Strategic Thinking
Athletes constantly assess, adapt, and strategise. Whether analysing an opponent’s tactics or making split-second decisions, they develop a keen ability to think strategically. This skill is essential for leaders who must navigate complex organisational challenges.
The report emphasises that this capacity for strategic thinking empowers women to excel in decision-making roles, giving them a competitive edge in fields traditionally dominated by men.
Generational Impact: Passing the Torch
The influence of sport doesn’t end with the individual. Women who participate in athletics often become role models and mentors, inspiring the next generation of female leaders. This ripple effect is particularly impactful in communities where access to leadership development opportunities may be limited.
Research shows that girls who have female role models in sports are more likely to stay engaged in both athletic and academic pursuits. These mentors demonstrate the power of perseverance, showing younger women that they too can lead and succeed.
At SheThrives, we believe in the power of mentorship and generational influence. When women uplift one another, entire communities benefit, creating a cycle of empowerment that drives long-term social change.
Breaking Down Barriers to Access
Despite the clear benefits of sports participation, many women and girls still face barriers to access. The report identifies several obstacles, including:
- Limited funding for women’s sports programs
- Cultural biases that discourage girls from athletic participation
- A lack of visibility for female athletes
Addressing these challenges requires collective action. Schools, organisations, and policymakers must prioritise equal opportunities for women in sports. Initiatives that promote inclusivity, invest in resources, and celebrate women’s athletic achievements are crucial to closing the gap.
Championing Women’s Leadership Through Sport
The Play to Lead report underscores the urgent need to support sports participation for women at all levels. Whether through grassroots initiatives or corporate leadership programs, investing in women's sports is an investment in future leaders
So how can we champion this cause? Here are a few actionable steps.
1. Support Girls’ Sports Programs
Contribute to organisations that provide funding, resources, and mentorship for young female athletes. These programs often serve as crucial entry points for developing leadership skills.
2. Celebrate Women Athletes
Visibility matters. Share stories of female athletes, attend women’s sporting events, and advocate for media coverage that highlights their achievements.
3. Encourage Physical Activity
Even outside of competitive sports, physical activity fosters well-being and self-confidence. Encourage women and girls to engage in activities that promote both physical and mental resilience.
4. Create Mentorship Opportunities
If you’re in a leadership role, consider mentoring a young woman with an interest in sports or leadership. Sharing your experiences can inspire and guide her journey.
Inspiring Stories of Leadership and Sport
Their stories remind us that every woman has the potential to lead—sometimes all it takes is the right opportunity and a supportive network.
Final Thoughts
The Play to Lead report sheds light on the generational impact of sports on women’s leadership. By fostering confidence, resilience, and teamwork, sports lay the foundation for women to excel in both personal and professional arenas.
At SheThrives, we celebrate these stories of empowerment and encourage all women to embrace opportunities that push their limits and unlock their full potential. Together, we can build a future where leadership is truly inclusive and thriving.
For more insights and resources on women’s empowerment, visit our blog and join the conversation.