Why girls in sports are here to stay

There is a persistent myth that girls are not as competitive, as driven or as committed to sports as boys. It is false and in some type of way it is holding many girls from reaching their potential.

The truth?

Girls are just a passionate, jus t as ambitious as boys. They can push through pain, pressure and sacrifice. What they lack is not just motivation; it is the opportunity to showcase their skills, the encouragement and belief from adults around them.

Here are a few common myths and truth that needs to be replaced that were shared by young girls from Eswatini Volleyball teams

Myth 1: “Girls are not as serious about sports”

Response by Wenziwe Mazibuko from Scorpions VC

“People say we are not serious, but they do not see the after school practises we spend instead of going out with friends. We give a lot to play this game with all the shouting we sometimes receive from our coaches but because of our seriousness towards it we stay focused.”

Myth 2: “Ladies do not stay committed to sports”

Response by Coach Gee from Tigress VC

“I have seen the girls showing loyalty to the sport. Some never missed training not unless there is a valid reason for them not coming that particular day. If that is not commitment, I don’t know what it is.”

Myth 3: “They are too emotional to complete at a high level”

Response from secretary general of ENVA (Tassh Dlamini)

“Emotion is not a weakness. It is a source of power. Teaching girls to channel emotion into performance creates mentally tough, empathetic and self awareness athletes.”

Myth 4: “Sports are not as important for girls”

Response by Ngcebo from Zakhele VC

“Before I started playing, I didn’t really believe in myself. Volleyball taught me how to push through fear, how to lead, and how to speak up. It is not about medals but it is about knowing I am strong, that I can handle pressure, and that I do not shrink myself to fit in.”

For girls to replace the myths people have towards girls in sports they also need support from their parents since parents can be a bit strict and overprotective towards the girl child.

Parents need to understand that:

• Competitive sports are not just a hobby but a lifestyle.
• Training is not optional but daily.
• Games do not wait for holidays or family events, therefore, weekends at home are rare.
• Late nights