What is stopping some kids from trying out for the team while others don’t think twice? What makes some kids excited, while other kids don’t even consider signing up? Here’s the reality in youth sports: many youth are excluded from sports because of gender, race, socioeconomic status, disability, body size, and/or geography. Research shows that girls and gender diverse youth are not only more likely to drop out of sport, but that they also face more barriers to entry compared to boys, layer on that kids from equity-owed communities may face compounded barriers. Why Can’t They Play? explores these challenges through illustrated stories, research insights, and actionable strategies for schools to ensure every child has the chance to participate. The graphic novel builds on the research of project RE.sport, led by Dr. Catherine Sabiston at the University of Toronto, with a focus on creating inclusive and equitable youth sport in Canada. In the graphic novel, the researchers break down some of the main ways that a soccer tryout can exclude many kids-and why that’s wrong, and what kids, coaches and educators can do about it. When we work together, we can find a way that we can all play.
