In many communities across India, conversations around gender equality and safe sporting environments remain limited. This workshop provided a much-needed platform to raise awareness, challenge norms, and inspire change.
Throughout the day, participants explored the power of coaching beyond performance, seeing it as a tool for social transformation. Emphasis was placed on how coaches can shape the way girls experience sport, leadership, and self-worth, particularly by creating emotionally safe, respectful, and empowering spaces.
One key theme was the societal and cultural pressures that affect girls' confidence, particularly around body image and self-esteem. Participants examined how appearance-based teasing, body talk, and performance anxiety can manifest in sports settings, and learned strategies to address these issues constructively.
The session also emphasized the importance of body-positive, stigma-free spaces and the coach's role in recognizing and supporting mental health needs, including anxiety, isolation, and self-doubt. Building a sense of belonging and emotional resilience emerged as essential responsibilities for any coach working with girls in sport.
Menstrual health, often overlooked in sport, was openly addressed. By confronting taboos and encouraging dialogue, the workshop promoted a coaching culture where menstruation is understood, accommodated, and normalized, ensuring that no girl feels excluded from sport because of her cycle.
Following the success of the Pune workshop, the ITTF Foundation will continue delivering the Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway in India, with more sessions planned in other cities. Together with our partners, TAFISA is building a growing movement for gender-equitable, safe, and inclusive coaching practices, ensuring that girls everywhere can thrive in and through sport.
