As the children in the country return to school, it is interesting to note that a recent study in the UK has reported that girls who play after-school sports are more likely to get top jobs later in life, and has revealed that this boost is almost equivalent to a university degree.
The research found that women who played extracurricular sport as children were much more likely to reach senior professional roles. This benefit was attributed to the resilience, confidence and adaptability that sport builds.
It also found that women who played sport were more likely to manage pressure well and bounce back after hard times, as well as enjoy trying new things.
After-school sports can be more than just physical activity—for girls, in particular, these programmes are delivering long-term benefits for both academic and psychological outcomes.
Another Canadian study previously followed nearly 2,800 children from age 12 and looked at their participation in organised sports. The findings showed that girls who played sports had about a seven per cent higher likelihood of graduating high school by age 20. Girls involved in “artistic sports” like dance or gymnastics had 23 per cent higher grades compared to those with no such activity.
Beyond academics, sports participation seems to strongly support girls’ mental health. Research by the Youth Sport Trust in the UK, surveying over 5,000 young people aged 13-15, found that girls who stayed involved in school sports reported higher levels of well-being, self-belief, and mental toughness than those who were less involved.
Similarly, a US report found that adolescent girls who participated in after-school sports had significantly better self-rated health and lower depressive symptoms in early adulthood than those who did not.
Perhaps most compellingly for long-term impact, the 2025 UK study found that girls who take part in after-school sports are 50 per cent more likely to occupy senior roles later in life, an effect “equivalent” to what a university degree offers. The researchers credit sport with building confidence, mental strength, as well as flexibility, traits that are highly valued in professional environments.
Unfortunately, this study also acknowledged the persistent barriers faced by girls who should be exposed to this type of physical activity on a regular basis. In fact, girls were found to be far less likely to play sport than boys, with many excluded due to cost and lack of local access. One in three girls surveyed for the report said boys had access to a wider range of sports, and there was noted to be a higher drop-out rate in girls.
Some other issues highlighted were that girls were more likely to stay engaged when programmes felt welcoming, flexible, and attuned to their preferences, for example, sport types, uniforms and team dynamics.
Ultimately, this growing body of evidence makes a strong case: after-school sports contribute significantly to girls’ educational success, physical fitness, mental health, and future career opportunities.
To fully realise these benefits, parents, schools and community programmes must work to reduce barriers, ensure sports are inclusive, maintain engagement throughout adolescence, and support a range of sporting and physical activity options.
For girls, sport is not just play—it is a training ground for leadership, resilience, well-being, and empowerment.
