A large number of studies have shown that participating in team sports can be beneficial to female adolescent development. For example, competency and skill development in the particular sport can be improved, and feelings of general social acceptance are likely to increase (Heitler, 2004). Indeed, girls who continue with team sports such as soccer for longer tend to cite “the social rewards of playing” as a primary benefit and reason for their continuation in the sport (Keathley et al., 2013). Generally, self-esteem drops when girls reach adolescence, but participating in team sports can help enhance self-esteem and improve teamwork skills (Williams, 2023). However, for these benefits to be maximized, a positive and inclusive team environment is crucial.
Unfortunately, a large number of adolescents—particularly female adolescents—struggle with bullying when it comes to sports and physical activity—both in school and within their teams. One study that examined whether or not adolescents elect to continue participating in physical education in school after their requirements were fulfilled found that females in particular are likely to drop out. The females cited reasons such as forced competition, degrading evaluation, and sexuality- and size-related harassment by both peers and teachers (van Daalen, 2005). Among female adolescents participating in competitive athletic clubs outside of school, another study found that athletes were two to three times more likely than nonathletes to be victims of bullying at school. Possible reasons for this higher rate of victimization included “girl culture” and learned aggression (Volk & Lagzdins, 2011). Indeed, aggression among girl athletes—for example, among female soccer players—is common and is often traced back to their team’s "moral atmosphere," including team aggressive norms, players’ perceptions of the norms, players’ beliefs that........