Empowering Girls Through Sport: Girls At Bat in Inverness, Nova Scotia
The Girls At Bat program in Inverness, Nova Scotia, captured the spirit of community, inclusion, and empowerment throughout the spring and summer of 2024. Under the leadership of Coach Carly Beaton and Supervisor Krista MacInnis, the program provided an incredible opportunity for local girls to experience the joy of sport in an inclusive environment. For many, it was the first time they had the chance to be part of a sports team. The transformative effect of this experience was profound, both for the participants and the coaches who were privileged to guide them.
An Inclusive Environment That Encouraged Growth
Inclusivity was a core focus of Girls At Bat in Inverness, and the results were unmistakable. The program drew in 18 girls per session, generally aged 9-12, many of whom had little to no experience playing organized sports. The environment allowed the girls to feel comfortable trying new skills, without the intimidation that often accompanies co-ed environments. Krista noted, "The level of effort from the girls was amazing—they tried harder when they weren't intimidated by boys and were more willing to try new things without feeling embarrassed."
Whether doing team cheers or group drills, the girls' personalities began to shine as they bonded over shared successes and challenges. Coach Carly emphasized the importance of keeping the atmosphere light, using team names like "Pink Jays," playing music, and keeping the energy upbeat. "The girls were shy at first, but by creating a positive environment—good music, good cheer—they slowly came out of their shells and supported one another," Carly said. This supportive atmosphere helped foster genuine friendships and a strong sense of community among participants.
Adapting to Challenges
The program faced challenges: the varied skill level of participants and changes in location due to unpredictable weather particularly around adapting to the varied skill levels of participants and changes in location due to unpredictable weather. In the summer session, rain forced the program indoors for the first two weeks, and Carly noted that adapting the activities to an indoor space was a challenge. Despite this, the girls remained enthusiastic, many showing tremendous improvement over the summer. Carly was particularly proud of the progress made by participants, recalling how they stuck with it even when circumstances weren't ideal. "By the time they held their final scrimmage, the girls had come a long way—some even hit home runs, a testament to their hard work and resilience."
Carly and Krista highlighted the program's adaptability, noting how important it was in ensuring every participant could thrive. The program's flexibility ensured the girls felt successful and continued to enjoy the program, regardless of where they started.
The Impact of Empowerment
The impact of Girls At Bat on the participants was profound. Krista described how the program represented the first real opportunity for many to be part of a sports team. "It was a powerful experience for the girls. The confidence they gained extended beyond the softball field." She recalled how the girls' personalities blossomed throughout the program. "They were so supportive of one another," she said. "It was amazing to see how happy they were, especially during team cheers and when they celebrated each other's successes."
The sense of accomplishment from learning new skills and being part of a supportive team environment left a lasting impression. Carly fondly remembers the final game of the summer, where the girls demonstrated their skills and the strong bonds they had built. "Seeing their improvement and the joy on their faces was my favorite part of the summer," she shared.
Lessons for Future Success
Both Carly and Krista expressed enthusiasm for continuing Girls At Bat in Inverness. Krista mentioned that the "Blue Jays" brand added a special draw, making the program feel more connected to something bigger, which was a source of pride for the participants.
Carly offered advice for future coaches: "Don't be shy. The girls might be at first, but if you bring the energy—good music, team names, and a fun attitude—they'll come around." She also stressed the importance of adapting activities to meet participants where they are and not being afraid to modify drills to keep things enjoyable.
The Girls At Bat program in Inverness demonstrated how powerful sports participation can be in empowering young girls, building their confidence, and fostering a sense of belonging. With strong community support, adaptable coaching, and an emphasis on inclusion, Girls At Bat turned a group of hesitant individuals into a cohesive, supportive team. For municipalities considering adopting this program, Inverness serves as an inspiring example of the difference that Girls At Bat can make in the lives of young girls—and in the community as a whole.
