The Importance of Inclusion in High School Sports

Sports have always played a significant role in the lives of young people, providing not only physical activity but also valuable life skills and experiences. However, not all students have equal access to sports opportunities, leading to underrepresentation of certain groups in high school sports. This lack of representation creates barriers and hinders the development of skills and confidence in these individuals. In this article, we will explore the importance of inclusion in high school sports and highlight some organizations that are working to bridge this gap.

Girls in High School Sports: Breaking Barriers

Girls make up a significant portion of high school athletes, but they are still underrepresented compared to their male counterparts. According to the Multnomah Athletic Foundation, girls make up only 44% of high school athletes, while boys make up the remaining 56%. To address this disparity, organizations like Girls on the Run are dedicated to empowering young girls through sports.

Girls on the Run is a nonprofit organization that focuses on the whole girl, providing lessons that help girls find their voices, make friends, have fun, and develop vital social and emotional skills. Through a growth mindset approach, girls learn to set their own goals and support each other in a noncompetitive environment. The organization also provides financial aid for families who are unable to pay the full registration fee, ensuring that all girls have the opportunity to participate. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, Girls on the Run is breaking barriers and empowering girls to thrive both on and off the field.

Native American Youth: Addressing Health Disparities

Native American adolescents face significant health disparities, including higher rates of obesity and diabetes. To address these issues, organizations like the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) are providing culturally specific programming to support Native American youth in Portland.

NAYA's after-school program plays a vital role in supporting Native American adolescents, providing safe and supportive environments for physical activity, social development, and community engagement. The organization offers open gym spaces where youth can play basketball, make friends, and have fun. By fostering athletic activities and strategic partnerships with educational institutions, NAYA is dedicated to empowering Native American youth academically, physically, and emotionally.

Supporting Underrepresented Youth of Color

Students of color, particularly males, face significant barriers when it comes to meeting physical fitness guidelines. Friends of Baseball (FOB) is an organization that is working to address these disparities by providing support and mentorship to underrepresented youth in the Portland Metro region.

FOB aims to create equitable access to sports-related programs, youth development, and mentorship for underserved communities. Through initiatives like the Girls LEAD Softball program and the Full Count RBI Baseball Academy, FOB provides coaching, mentorship, and opportunities for marginalized youth. By creating a sense of belonging and leveling the playing field, FOB is fostering a more inclusive and equitable community for all.

Inclusion for Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities are often underrepresented in high school sports, with only an estimated 6%-25% participating. Adaptive Sports Northwest (ASNW) is committed to providing resources and competitive sports opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

ASNW acts as a catalyst for educating, connecting, and inspiring people through the spirit of sport and inclusion. The organization provides resources such as proper sports equipment and connects students with local adaptive sports teams. By empowering youth with disabilities and promoting inclusivity, ASNW is breaking down barriers and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to participate in high school sports.

LGBTQ+ Youth: Creating Safe Spaces

LGBTQ+ youth face unique challenges when it comes to sports participation. The Rose City Rollers, a roller derby league, is leading the way in creating safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ youth to participate in sports.

The Rose City Rollers celebrate body diversity, LGBTQIA+ skaters, and provide a supportive environment for skaters to be their most authentic selves. The organization is currently re-building a world-class coach training program that includes modules on supporting LGBTQIA+ athletes, anti-bias training, and curriculum creation. With a significant number of LGBTQIA+ athletes and coaches, the Rose City Rollers provide representation and support for youth athletes, creating a welcoming and inclusive community.

Closing the Gap: Creating Opportunities for All

The underrepresentation of certain groups in high school sports is a barrier to personal growth, skill development, and confidence-building. However, organizations like Girls on the Run, NAYA, Friends of Baseball, Adaptive Sports Northwest, and the Rose City Rollers are working tirelessly to bridge this gap and create opportunities for all youth.

By providing financial aid, culturally specific programming, mentorship, and safe spaces, these organizations are empowering underrepresented individuals to participate in high school sports. Through their efforts, they are not only breaking down barriers but also creating a more inclusive and equitable community.

In conclusion, inclusion in high school sports is crucial for the development and well-being of all students. By addressing disparities and providing opportunities, we can ensure that every student has the chance to participate, grow, and thrive through athletics. Together, we can create a more inclusive and empowering environment for all young athletes.