ElevateHER Coach Resource Hub
Equip coaches with tools to better support girls.
Our research derived from Women in Sport Canada composes practical strategies and evidence-based insights to help you build stronger connections and foster lasting participation.
Developmental Differences
Understanding cognitive and physical growth stages specific to adolescent girls.
Communication Styles
Effective strategies for clear, empathetic, and motivational coaching dialogue.
Building Trust
Creating a safe, supportive environment where every athlete feels seen and heard.
Confidence & Leadership
Encouraging Participation
- Create low-stakes opportunities to try new skills.
- Provide specific, effort-based feedback.
- Acknowledge bravery over perfection.
Leadership Opportunities
- Rotate captaincy and peer-mentoring roles.
- Involve athletes in decision-making processes.
- Identify and nurture diverse leadership styles.
Positive Team Culture
- Foster a sense of belonging for every athlete.
- Promote vulnerability and mutual respect.
- Celebrate team-building and off-field connections.
Supporting Athletes Through Changes
Body Image & Puberty
Supporting athletes through physical changes with compassion and practical strategy.
Addressing Uniform Concerns
Promoting Self-Confidence
Creating Inclusive Teams
Psychological Safety
Foster an environment where every athlete feels safe to take risks, share their voice, and be themselves without fear of judgment.
Belonging
Prioritize connection and ensure every girl feels like a valued member of the collective, regardless of skill level.
Respectful Team Environments
Establish clear standards for mutual respect and celebrate diverse perspectives to build a positive and cohesive team culture.
Preventing Sport Dropout
Warning Signs
Identify early indicators like decreased enthusiasm, frequent absences, or lack of social connection within the team.
Retention Strategies
Implement proactive measures including regular check-ins, diversifying leadership roles, and focusing on skill mastery over competition.
Athlete Engagement
Keep girls involved by centering their voices in decision-making, fostering deep social bonds, and creating a fun, low-pressure environment where growth is celebrated.
Recommended Organizations
Keeping Girls in Sport: Research Summary
Scientific insights and takeaways from the Coach For Her seminar to optimize coaching efficacy and athlete retention.
01
Center Athlete Voice
Girls stay in sport when they feel heard and valued. Empower athletes to lead and contribute to team decisions.
02
Prioritize Connection & Belonging
Social connection is the primary driver for girls. Foster deep relationships and respect to prevent dropout.
03
Foster Positive Development
Focus on growth over winning. Providing opportunities for mastery and leadership builds lifelong resilience.
04
Promote Body Confidence
Address puberty and uniform concerns proactively. Supportive environments protect against body image barriers.
05
Lead with Vulnerability
Coaches who show humanity and lead with vulnerability create psychological safety for athletes to thrive.