Over 100 girls from secondary schools across Aberdeen gathered today (Friday 4 October) for an action-packed Active Girls Day event, celebrating the amazing work going into girls’ sport and the incredible role models making it happen. 

The pioneering Active Girls Committee (AGC), supported by Sport Aberdeen’s Active Schools team celebrated the national sportscotland initiative by hosting an activity day at the Beach Leisure Centre.

A record number of girls took part in a series of taster sessions run by Sport Aberdeen staff and community coaches including dance classes, spin classes, ice skating and a welcome talk delivered by members of the fifteen strong committee.

The AGC is run by girls from secondary schools across the city who are championing a move to get more young girls involved in sport and physical activity. 

Committee members welcomed Kevin Stewart MSP to the 2019 gathering to witness the revolutionary initiative first hand and meet some of the dedicated young girls who are paving the way for their peers, helping to build confidence and break down barriers through sport and physical activity.

Kevin Stewart MSP commented:

“I’m extremely impressed with what I’ve seen here today, and obviously this is a great opportunity for young girls to get involved in sport.

“It is quite amazing to see some people being a little bit reticent at the start of a session and by the end really enjoying it and I hope that many of the young girls that have been here today will take the opportunity to build on their experience and continue participating in sporting activity.”

(Left to right) Keith Gerrard Sport Aberdeen Director of Healthy and Active Communities, members of the Active Girls Committee and Kevin Stewart MSP.

Keith Gerrard, Sport Aberdeen Director of Healthy and Active Communities, commented:

“The Active Girls Committee has gone from strength to strength, highlighting the value of working together with governing bodies in Scotland to inspire more young people to take up sport and physical activity in Aberdeen. 

“The Active Girls Day is a fantastic opportunity for girls from across the city to come together and, for many, try something completely new within a fun and friendly environment, helping to boost confidence and pave the way for more young people to reap the benefits of leading an active lifestyle.

“This group of enthusiastic girls have already produced impressive and positive results and it really is inspiring to see first-hand what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.”

sportscotland chief executive Stewart Harris said:

“We want as many people as possible to enjoy the benefits of sport and physical activity. From improving physical and mental health, to developing skills and strengthening communities, sport can be life changing.

“The Active Girls Committee in Aberdeen is already having a positive impact, encouraging girls to participate in sport and this event is a fantastic way to celebrate Active Girls Day.”