ATJ sees sports (and in our case, specifically football) as a way of developing the talents and self-esteems of young girls. Through sports organized in a safe environment, hundreds of young male and female are given the chance to showcase talents that are not usually recognized. When these boys and girls are in the field, they get out of the ‘social construction’ that would ordinarily bar them from active participation in football. They have the unique opportunity of showing men and women; girls and boys that football can be for everyone, and many spectators are often surprised at the talent exhibited. And these talents exhibited normally land scholarship opportunities for high school and college education and future careers. ATJ also believe that if vulnerable and disadvantaged boy and girls can connect with non-parental peers, motivational speakers and role models who provide them with inspiration, guidance and information on life skills, they will be more likely able to handle challenges affecting them, perform well in school, avoid high-risk activities and make more successful transitions to adulthood.
“The power of sports is far more than symbolic. You can bring youth and others in from the margins, strengthening the social fabric. You can promote communication and help heal the divisions between peoples, communities and entire nations. You can set an example of fair play.”
