A new program from Brock University’s Centre for Sport Capacity (CSC) is looking to build leadership skills in young girls through the power of sport.

With the highest sport dropout rate attributed to girls in their adolescent years, Lead Like a Girl will use sport to help participants between the ages of 11 and 13 build confidence, develop leadership skills and find inspiration.

Taking place Tuesday, Aug. 9 to Thursday, Aug. 11, during the first week of the Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games, the program will feature elite women in action as the young participants visit events including rugby, box lacrosse, wrestling and beach volleyball.

CSC Director Julie Stevens says the positive role sport can play in adolescent development is a key reason why dropout among girls must be combatted.

“We want to foster a place for young women to thrive and be inspired,” says Stevens, who is also a Professor of Sport Management. “We are delighted to have this opportunity, with the Canada Games backdrop and strong female figures in attendance, to guide these young girls along this important journey.”

Through the program, the CSC aims to provide opportunities for young girls to learn how to be a leader in a safe and confident environment. Mornings will be filled with interactive and immersive sessions built around sport. After lunch, participants will be guided to women’s sporting events at Brock University and Canada Games Park before wrapping up the day with reflections on skills and experiences.

Program Lead and Brock women’s hockey coach Margot Page says the program is a “special opportunity for the participants to learn about leadership and life skills in the unique environment of the Canada Games.”

“The sessions will introduce these topics in interactive and dynamic ways in group and individual settings,” says Page, who served as assistant coach of the 2006 Olympic gold medal-winning Canadian women’s hockey team. “Participants will also have the benefit of seeing strong female role models as program facilitators and Canada Games athletes, coaches and support staff, using all they witness to build their skills and grow.”

For more information on the program’s cost and registration deadlines, please visit the Centre for Sport Capacity website.