Brittany Baxter played soccer at its highest level, representing Canada at the FIFA U20 World Cup and winning a bronze medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.
But she had to start somewhere. She had to take that first step over the touch line, kick a ball for the first time.
For some young girls that’s not always easy, said Baxter, the technical director of Port Moody Soccer Club (PMSC).
On Aug. 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Inlet Field (3024 Murray St.), a new initiative by PMSC aims to create a fun, easy introduction to soccer for girls of all ages and athletic abilities.
The “Play. Inspire. Repeat. Get Girls in Sport” try-a-thon will feature a DJ to help create a party atmosphere and various skills stations where girls can try their feet at dribbling, passing and shooting, along with plenty of coaches to show them the way and answer any questions. Spike, the Vancouver Whitecaps' mascot, will also make an appearance.
It’s all about fun and inclusivity, said Baxter, whose soccer success got her inducted into five sports halls of fame.
“We’re finding ways to show them there’s other girls out there playing.”
Baxter said while she took to soccer immediately, for other young girls it’s not always so easy. They may have had limited exposure to the sport and are unsure of their own abilities to participate. They might just be reluctant to give it a try, afraid they won’t be good enough.
But, Baxter said, overcoming those perceptions can lead to a lifetime of benefits, even if they never attain a Golden Boot or Gold Medal.
“Soccer brings out so many positive things,” Baxter said. “You learn life lessons through sport.”
Those can include time management, dealing with adversity and navigating group dynamics where others might not share your point of view.
“You get the feeling you can compete at something,” Baxter said. “You’re working towards your goal of getting better.”
You also make friends, she added.
To boost the self-confidence of young female players, PMSC has also created an exclusive, limited edition line of bright pink kits and leisure wear like hoodies that promote the “Play. Inspire. Repeat.” mantra.
The wear is designed by Marla Guloien, a local designer whose work has been featured at awards shows, on the cover of Bello magazine and in music videos. She said it will help empower young women to pursue their passions and dreams in sport.
“It’s an exciting time to be working on programs and campaigns to promote girls in sport because I know how important it is,” Guloien said.
Baxter said it’s all about tailoring girls’ experiences so they feel comfortable.
“Everyone wants to feel comfortable,” she said. “The more we can make sure girls can have that positive experience, the more who are likely to develop a positive relationship with their sport.”
Oh yeah, Baxter added, boys are welcome as well.
