According to the World Bank and the United Nations, the best way to combat poverty and stagnation in developing countries is to invest in girls and women. Offering girls more opportunities to participate in sports leads to an increase in their overall confidence, self-esteem, and self-efficacy.
Research indicates that regular physical activity helps children to maintain healthy bodies; to reduce childhood obesity; and to prevent or delay the development of certain chronic diseases. Furthermore, physical activity, in general, is associated with improved academic achievement, including higher grades and standardized test scores.
A 2019 study by the Aspen Institute found a direct correlation between the vitality of a community and its overall level of participation in sports. Youth participation in sports teaches valuable lessons such as teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship which can translate into lifelong positive behaviors within a community.
