On World Children’s Day 2024, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) is proud to highlight its commitment to empowering young girls through the Body Confident Sport program. Launched during the 49th Statutory Congress of the FIH earlier this month, this initiative aligns with the 2024 theme, “Listen to the Future,” emphasizing the importance of hearing and addressing the voices of young people to shape a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.
Body Confident Sport is a tool co-created by Nike and Dove, and funded by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, which tackles one of the critical challenges faced by girls in sports: low self-esteem linked to negative body image, with research showing that nearly half of teenage girls (aged 11–17) drop out of sports due to body image insecurities.
FIH is using this platform to amplify the voices of girls, ensuring their needs and aspirations are heard and met through meaningful action. The Body Confident Sport program aims to bring about change by helping girls and young people of all gender identities feel comfortable and confident in their own bodies while participating in sports, including hockey. Through a combination of coach education and practical, easy-to-use program guides, the initiative provides both coaches and players with the tools, knowledge and inspiration to foster body-confident athletes.
By rolling out the coaching tool globally, FIH aims to provide hockey coaches with practical resources to create supportive and inclusive environments. This project reflects FIH’s dedication to ensuring that every girl feels valued, confident, and inspired to stay active in hockey, offering opportunities for self-expression, growth, and empowerment.
Commenting on the initiative, FIH President Tayyab Ikram said: “World Children’s Day, with its theme ‘Listen to the Future,’ perfectly embodies what the Body Confident Sport program stands for. This initiative, launched during the FIH Congress, is about listening to the voices of young girls, addressing their concerns, and creating an inclusive environment where they can thrive. By fostering body confidence, we aim to ensure that everyone feels supported and empowered to pursue their passion for hockey, shaping the future of the sport and society alike.”
This effort will be promoted under the empowering banner of #MadeForHockey, set to become a powerful symbol for women’s empowerment in hockey.
About World Children’s Day
Observed annually on November 20, World Children’s Day 2024 focuses on the theme “Listen to the Future,” emphasizing the importance of prioritizing children’s voices in creating a better world. By empowering girls and addressing their challenges, the Body Confident Sport program exemplifies the transformative power of sport to inspire confidence, inclusivity, and leadership among young athletes.
For more information on this initiative and other FIH programs, visit madefor.hockey.
Source: FIH.hockey
