Transforming Lives Through Sport: The Power of Girls At Bat
Across Canada, Jays Care Foundation's Girls At Bat program is transforming how young girls experience sport. From rural communities like Barriere, British Columbia, to bustling cities like Halifax, Nova Scotia, the program stretches coast to coast, showcasing broad participation from diverse communities. The program is more than a sports initiative—it’s a space where confidence is built, friendships are forged, and communities come alive. With every swing, cheer, and shared moment, Girls At Bat empowers young girls to discover their potential and thrive.
For many, Girls At Bat offers a first step into organized sports—an opportunity to belong and grow in a supportive environment. In Inverness, Nova Scotia, Coach Carly Beaton witnessed this transformation firsthand. “The girls’ personalities blossomed through team cheers and group drills,” she shared. “They felt comfortable trying new things without intimidation.”
Inclusivity lies at the heart of the program. In Barriere, British Columbia, girls with varying skill levels—and even those with disabilities—found their place on the team. Coach Kevin Kershaw saw anxious participants become confident players as friendships and skills flourished. “We had one participant who was incredibly shy at first, but by the end of the program, she was leading cheers and encouraging her teammates,” Kevin said.
In Cumberland, Nova Scotia, the sense of community was palpable. “It was amazing to see how the girls supported each other, especially those who were new to sports,” said Coach Nicholas Leopold. “By the end of the season, we had a group of girls who were not only teammates but true friends.”
Communities have embraced the program’s flexible and innovative approach. In Calgary, Coach Imandi Attanayake adapted activities to suit a range of skill levels, ensuring every girl felt included and successful. “One size does not fit all,” Imandi explained. “Adjusting activities in real-time created a space where each participant could thrive.”
Even challenges like weather and space constraints didn’t hinder the program’s success. In Tillsonburg and Inverness, sessions moved indoors while maintaining enthusiasm and engagement. “Despite moving indoors, the girls’ energy never wavered—they were just as excited to play and learn,” said Coach Melanie Corbett from Tillsonburg. These adjustments underscore the program’s resilience and the commitment of its leaders to providing positive experiences for all participants.
In Burk's Falls, Ontario, Coach Ryan Baptiste reflected on the value of adaptability. “The flexibility we had in delivering the program meant that every girl, regardless of her skill level or experience, felt valued. It was rewarding to see each of them grow in their own way.”
The benefits of Girls At Bat extend far beyond the baseball diamond. Parents in Cumberland, Nova Scotia, marveled at their daughters’ newfound confidence and enthusiasm for sports. “My daughter never wanted to join any sports before this, but now she can’t wait for practice every week,” shared a parent from Cumberland.
In Bible Hill, a program supervisor recalled how participants ended the season wishing it wouldn’t end—a testament to the joy and connection fostered by the program. “We had girls who didn’t want the season to end—they were asking when we could start again,” said Haley Smith, a program supervisor from Bible Hill.
Many participants continue their journey in sport. In Barriere, many participants joined the local baseball league, reviving a struggling program. “Seeing so many of our Girls At Bat participants sign up for the local league was incredible. It shows just how impactful this program has been,” added Coach Kevin Kershaw. This ripple effect demonstrates how Girls At Bat inspires individual growth and strengthens communities.
In Burk's Falls, Coach Ryan Baptiste shared a particularly moving moment: “One of our participants, who initially struggled with confidence, hit her first home run during a game. The look of pride on her face and the cheers from her teammates and family were unforgettable. Moments like these show the real impact of Girls At Bat.”
The program’s success is also reflected in the coaches who deliver it. Across Canada, leaders have described Girls At Bat as a transformative experience for participants and coaches alike. Jays Care Foundation provides extensive resources, from training videos to detailed coaching manuals, ensuring those leading the program feel equipped and confident. “I’ve coached other sports before, but Girls At Bat was different—it gave me the tools to really connect with the players and help them grow,” said Coach Imandi Attanayake.
In Calgary, Recreation Program Specialist Izaha Cochran shared how the program impacted his coaching approach. “The resources provided by Jays Care allowed me to create an environment that was not simply about learning the sport but also about personal growth. The girls learned how to support one another, and I learned how to be a better mentor.”
Girls At Bat is a program of empowerment, creating stories of inclusion, growth, and community pride across Canada. Each success story—whether in a rural town or a major city—shows the profound difference this program makes.
Jays Care Foundation offers everything needed to bring Girls At Bat to life in your community, from comprehensive resources to hands-on support. Step up to the plate and join the movement. Together, we can create a brighter future for young girls across the country—one swing at a time. Your community’s chapter in this inspiring story is ready to be written.
