Girls are dropping out of sport at twice the rate of boys, but a new initiative hopes to help change that.
Telecommunications company 2degrees has launched the SupportHER Club merchandise range, designed to boost confidence and encourage the right kind of support from the sidelines.
The limited-edition t-shirts and hoodies were created by illustrator Bonnie Brown in collaboration with sports psychologist Dom Vettise. Two slogans feature in the collection: Play Brave, printed in reverse so players see it in the mirror as encouragement to themselves, and Play Like You, a reminder for parents and supporters to focus on effort and enjoyment over results.
Vettise says the words heard on the sidelines often become “the voice in a girl’s head”. He says belief, rather than pressure, is what builds confidence.
2degrees spokesperson Emma-Kate Greer says by age 14, girls are leaving sport at much higher rates than boys, with nearly half of all adolescent girls giving up altogether. She says confidence crashes, and social pressure and self-doubt are major reasons.
“All proceeds from the range will go to the NZ Sport Collective to fund girls’ sport in schools and help more girls stay active, connected and confident,” Greer says.
Four-time Olympian Dame Valerie Adams is backing the movement. She says the right support can make the difference between a girl giving up or stepping up. “Every girl deserves to feel seen, supported and strong, on and off the field.”
T-shirts cost $20 and hoodies $40 and are available at 2degrees.nz/supportherclub. The campaign also provides tips for parents, teachers and coaches on how to offer encouragement without adding pressure.
