Multi-sports star Jess Foy: Sport is a fantastic tool for life and girls can benefit so much from it

Glentoran and Down ace backs report into female participation

Jessica Foy receives the Electric Ireland Women's Cup from Anne Smyth after Glentoran's 2022 victory

Glentoran captain and Down GAA star Jess Foy has welcomed a new report that highlights the impact of playing sport on teenage girls.

‘The Impact of Sport on Girls’ Resilience’ provides insights into girls’ attitudes towards sport and the role sport plays in building resilience.

The research — commissioned by Electric Ireland — involved parents and PE teachers of schoolgirls from a cross section of Northern Ireland’s secondary and grammar schools.

The report has led to the production of a digital resilience resource which includes a commissioned one-woman play, panel discussion and digital workbook which will be made widely available online and to all Northern Ireland secondary level schools.

PE teacher Foy believes the initiative is vital and will encourage teenage girls to remain in sport.

“I watched the play on Thursday, and it is so relevant to the experience that young girls face in everyday life. It highlights the challenges and obstacles that come your way in life.

“It looks at the barriers that prevent girls participating in sport, but also highlights the benefits to remaining active.

“The play is a great conversation starter, and the research itself is vitally important.

“It shows that girls can use their experience in sport to overcome challenges in everyday life.

“Sport gives you the toolset and the confidence to deal with all sorts of everyday situations.

“As a PE teacher myself, I see that the resilience you build through sport can help girls deal with pressure at exam time or when it comes to doing interviews for university or work.

“Sport is a