Getting girls involved in sports is an important aspect of promoting physical activity, teamwork, and confidence. However, one of the barriers that prevent girls from participating in sports is the lack of proper equipment. According to statistics, 40 percent of females do not participate in sports, and there are 1.3 million fewer opportunities for high school girls to compete in sports than boys. Additionally, girls in low-income communities are six times more likely to drop out of sports than boys. This is where initiatives like FLY:FWD by Operation Warm come in to address these disparities.
FLY:FWD, in collaboration with the Philadelphia Eagles, is focused on equipping young girls from diverse backgrounds with the gear they need to participate in sports. One essential piece of equipment for girls in sports is a sports bra. According to a 2024 Operation Warm Athletic Director survey, 100 percent of athletic directors agreed that a sports bra is essential for girls in sports. Furthermore, 86 percent of athletic directors who received sports bras for their entire school witnessed an increased interest in sports programs.
To celebrate Women’s Equality Day, FLY:FWD and the Eagles organized a clinic at the Firstrust Lounge inside Lincoln Financial Field. They invited a local school from Delaware, Padua Academy, an all-girls Catholic college preparatory school. Delaware is set to start its first girls flag football high school season in September. The girls participated in various teamwork stations and bonding activities, including untying a human knot, She Says, and choreographing celebrations. After the workshop, each participant received two Eagles sports bras for their use.
The impact of receiving sports bras on girls’ participation in sports is significant. According to the 2024 Operation Warm Impact Report, 86 percent of girls surveyed said that receiving a sports bra would make them more comfortable playing sports or being active. Additionally, 83 percent agreed that receiving a sports bra made them more interested in or more likely to play a sport.
Heather Connolly, Vice President of Partnerships for FLY:FWD, expressed gratitude for the partnership with the Eagles and encouraged the girls to spread the word about FLY:FWD. Initiatives like FLY:FWD play a crucial role in breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for girls from all backgrounds to participate in sports. By addressing the equipment needs of young female athletes, FLY:FWD is helping to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for girls in sports.
