By Olivia Condous
Young girls in sport prefer a flexible uniform policy, according to a new landmark study from Victoria University.
Through the Victorian government’s Change Our Game initiative, the research found that girls and women in sport are encouraged to participate by the opportunity to have uniform options, such as shorts, skirts or leggings.
The option to choose their uniform helps to foster confidence and happiness in female sports players, as well as helping them to feel less self-conscious.
In 2020, The Saints, a representative team out of the St Albans Caroline Springs Netball Association became the first in the state to do away with skirts in favour of shorts for their regular games.
Tracy Wallace said the new uniforms were modelled from the clothes the players wore to training, so it was a logical change that meant the girls would feel more comfortable.
“We had several complaints from the girls about the dresses, about how they’re not comfortable,” Ms Wallace said.
“We wanted to be different and always be a bit innovative, we’re not going back to dresses any time soon when we play,” she said.
Ms Wallace said the reception to the uniform change from the players was overwhelmingly positive, especially in the younger age groups.
Victoria University Professor Clare Hanlon said the research and case studies provided clear evidence on the positive effects of a flexible sport uniform.
“Clearly not one style fits all team members or individuals so there is a need for consistent flexible uniform policies and regulations across sport in all Associations, one that is actively promoted and educates and encourages member clubs to embrace,” she said.
