At SWATCOM, our commitment to inclusivity and equality drives us to support everyone, irrespective of gender. We take pride in the fact that over a third of our SWATCOM Network, comprising Ambassadors, Athletes, Organizations, and Teams, are women. This achievement stands in stark contrast to the statistics that show only 6% of gun license holders and 28.6% of climbers are women, highlighting our positive impact in this realm.
Reflecting on the changing tides, Mhairi-Ann Troup, Clay Shooter and DLSC Coach, notes, “In years gone by, the reaction was very different. It is definitely more accepted now that women can be (and are) just as good as men at this sport.”
Despite their significant presence in sports, women receive disproportionately low media coverage, with only 4% dedicated to women’s sports. Recognizing the power of representation, we are committed to showcasing gender equality across our social media platforms, as evidenced by the 10% of women who were inspired to pursue sports careers by seeing female role models.
Hannah Gibson
Clay Shooter who has represented GB and England emphasizes:
“I think we need to promote more that it’s okay if you want to be competitive, we don’t need to pretend it’s just about attending. We want to compete and be taken seriously for our skill.”
Our research underscores various practical and emotional barriers hindering women’s participation, including fear of judgment, lack of confidence, and time constraints. In response, we actively encourage women to explore all sports, not just the ones we endorse.
At SWATCOM, we’re dedicated to empowering our female athletes through resources and support, striving to level the playing field and promote gender equality in sports. By amplifying their voices and fostering growth opportunities, we aim to create an environment where all athletes can flourish.
Emeline Lakrout
National Champion WB1 Paraclimber shares her journey:
“As a young blind girl just trying to fit in during middle school physical education, I ran head-first into the intersections of my gender and disability. With a community that believes in support and empowerment, you can achieve anything.”
Despite the challenges, female athletes continue to inspire with their talent and determination, breaking records and making history. As we celebrate their achievements, let’s also champion the importance of creating an environment where everyone feels empowered to pursue their athletic aspirations.
Together, by addressing barriers, fostering inclusivity, and providing unwavering support, we can build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their chosen sport. Let’s unite to break down barriers and empower women to realize their full potential, both on and off the field.