Since its inception over a decade ago, the Sports 4 Life initiative has funded 281 organizations across 41 states, Washington, D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands, providing $3.2 million in grants to 95,000 girls participating in over 40 sports. The program supports community organizations that help girls in four foundational areas – leadership, confidence, self-esteem and perseverance – fostering girls’ physical and emotional health and academic success, and all community organizations who receive grant funding are equipped with WSF step-by-step discussion guides to help program leaders teach these skills successfully.  

“At the Women’s Sports Foundation, we believe every girl deserves the chance to play, lead and thrive because when they do, we all win,” said WSF CEO Danette Leighton. “For over 10 years, this powerful program has been developing the leaders of tomorrow, and that impact would not be possible without the support of our valued partner at ESPN. Together, through this initiative, we look forward to continuing to drive positive change in communities who have historically lacked sport access.”  

Launched in 2014, Sports 4 Life was built on the understanding that while sports participation offers lifelong benefits – from improved physical health and self-esteem to stronger academic performance and leadership development – far too many girls still lack equal access to play, putting them at risk of missing out on learning critical skills that will help them live healthier, more enriched lives. For example, according to WSF research, African-American girls are less likely to be current players and are the most likely to have never played sports compared to other groups. Further, girls of color also face limited access to physical activity and sports in public schools, particularly when compared to boys of color and their white peers.  

WSF’s “Play to Lead” research report revealed that 71 percent of women who played youth sports, and later held formal leadership roles, rose to positions such as Manager, Director, President or C-suite executive. These findings underscore that girls do not need to play in college or professionally to develop the grit, confidence and resilience needed to thrive as educators, doctors, lawyers, legislators, business owners or whatever profession they choose to pursue. Additional data from WSF’s “Communities at the Forefront” research report shows that after just one season in Sports 4 Life funded programs, girls reported improved physical, mental and social health – and were more likely to stay involved in sports, leadership and community activities. 

“At ESPN, and through our Take Back Sports initiative powered by Disney, we hope to get and keep girls playing sports,” said Vice President of ESPN Corporate Citizenship, Kevin Martinez. “Celebrating more than $3 million invested in girls through Sports 4 Life is about more than participation – it’s about fueling confidence, leadership, and resilience in the next generation. This year’s recipients are proof of the transformative power of sport, and together with the Women’s Sports Foundation, we’re proud to help level the playing field so that every girl has the chance to discover her potential.”  

This year’s grant recipients cover a gamut of traditional and non-traditional opportunities for girls, including archery, canoeing, flag football, ice hockey, skateboarding and more. And 27 of the 40 community organizations are new to Sports 4 Life funding – further expanding the reach of this powerful initiative.   

Learn more and meet our 2025 grant recipients here. 

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About the Women’s Sports Foundation
The Women’s Sports Foundation® (WSF®) exists to enable girls and women to reach their potential in sport and life. We are an ally, an advocate, and a catalyst for tomorrow’s leaders. Founded by Billie Jean King in 1974, we are one of the first organizations to recognize the powerful connection between sport access, equity, and society. For over 50 years, WSF has been changing the game through its research, advocacy, and community programming, investing over $115 million to help girls and women play, compete, and lead – in sports and beyond – without barriers. A leader and champion of the entire women’s sports ecosystem, WSF amplifies the vital societal and cultural impact that is made when girls and women play sports. When girls play, they lead, and we all win! To learn more about the Women’s Sports Foundation, please visit www.WomensSportsFoundation.org. 

About ESPN Corporate Citizenship
ESPN believes that, at its very best, sports uplift the human spirit. Its corporate citizenship programs use the power of sport to positively address society’s needs through strategic community investments, cause marketing programs, collaboration with sports organizations and employee volunteerism, while also utilizing its diverse media assets. For more information go to www.espn.com/citizenship. 

Media Contacts:
Kandice Miller
Women’s Sports Foundation
479.409.7779
KMiller@WomensSportsFoundation.org 

Garrett Cowan
ESPN
Garrett.cowan@espn.com 

The Women’s Sports Foundation Announces its 2025 Sports 4 Life Grant Recipients, Surpassing $3 Million to Empower Girls in Underserved Communities – Women’s Sports Foundation