Girls Go Gold
By Mabel M, Sports Scholar
The Girls Go Gold Conference, held at Sherborne Girls on Thursday, 19 September, was an extraordinary experience. Focused on women in sport, the day was filled with inspiration, empowerment, and opportunity.
With more than 500 attendees from 30 schools, the atmosphere was electric as we came together to celebrate the strength, ambition, and potential of young women in sport.
What made this event remarkable was its focus on the unique challenges women face in sport. Discussions tackled topics such as increasing representation, creating equal opportunities, and dismantling outdated stereotypes.
A particularly impactful topic was addressing women's needs in sport. This included recent kit design improvements at Sherborne Girls, such as switching from white shorts to darker colours for greater comfort during menstruation. These conversations reinforced the importance of fostering environments where women can excel without fear or stigma.
The day was packed with activities showcasing the incredible opportunities sport and leadership provide. We gained insight into life at the Olympic Village, heard from Olympians about their journeys, and learned from specialist clothing brand PEBE about the significance of sports bras in empowering female athletes.
The highlight of the conference was Clare Balding’s keynote speech. With humour, wisdom, and passion, she spoke about her career, love for sport, and the barriers women still face. Her words resonated deeply, inspiring us to believe that determination and courage can break down any obstacle.
For me, the conference was unforgettable, not just as an attendee, but as an active participant. One of the most memorable moments was interviewing Clare Balding in front of all the attendees after her talk. Sitting face to face with someone I have long admired was surreal. I seized the opportunity to ask her about her journey, motivations, and advice for young women like us. Clare's warmth made it feel less like an interview and more like an inspiring conversation. It is a memory I will carry with me for a long time.
The Girls Go Gold Conference was more than a celebration of sport. It was a powerful statement about the progress we’ve made, and the work still needed to achieve a truly level playing field. For all of us who attended, it was a launchpad for dreams and aspirations. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of such a remarkable event.
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