Women’s Sports Foundation report reveals youth participation and visibility gaps

The inaugural WSF Sport Report from the Women’s Sports Foundation reveals a significant disconnect between the booming professional women’s sports industry and youth participation. While professional leagues like the WNBA and NWSL experience record viewership and expected revenue growth, many young girls lack access to organized sports.

Research indicates that 54% of girls aged eight to 18 who have never played organized sports express a desire to do so. Additionally, the report identifies a “visibility gap”: 45% of girls surveyed could not name a single favorite professional athlete, regardless of gender. This stands in contrast to the rising superstardom of athletes such as Caitlin Clark and Simone Biles.

The data also highlights socioeconomic disparities. The visibility gap narrows as household income increases, with girls from higher-income households being more likely to name female athletes as favorites. The report suggests that those facing the greatest barriers to participation are also the least likely to see themselves reflected in professional sports icons.