London is a dynamic city, and for teenage girls, the opportunities to engage in sports outside the classroom have never been more diverse. From mainstream team sports to niche and emerging activities, girls are shaping their confidence, skills, and health through extracurricular athletics.
This guide explores the top extracurricular sports teenage girls in London are actively involved in—whether through school clubs, local borough initiatives, or grassroots programs.
Why Extracurricular Sports Matter for Teen Girls
Teenage years are formative—not just academically, but physically, emotionally, and socially. Sports offer far more than physical exercise. Here’s what they provide:
- Confidence and Empowerment: Team sports and individual achievements build self-esteem.
- Physical and Mental Health: Reduces stress, improves mood, and builds endurance and strength.
- Social Skills: Teamwork, communication, and leadership are all byproducts of consistent participation.
- Pathways to Opportunity: Many sports offer access to competitions, scholarships, and elite training.
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Most Popular Team Sports for Girls in London
Football (Soccer)
Football is the most rapidly growing sport among teenage girls in London. Fueled by increasing visibility of women’s leagues and local initiatives, many girls are now joining school teams, weekend clubs, and borough-level squads.
- Organizations like the Arsenal Foundation and Girls United support inner-city participation.
- Football is often the first competitive team sport girls try between ages 11–14.
Netball
Although it’s being edged out by football in popularity, netball remains a stronghold in London’s secondary schools and academies. It’s particularly prevalent in girls’ grammar schools and private institutions.
Basketball
Basketball has seen consistent growth thanks to community programs and school investment. Girls’ leagues are now part of the London Youth Games and various borough competitions.
Cricket
England’s growing investment in women’s cricket has made this a fast-rising choice. London schools and clubs like Surrey Cricket Foundation offer girls-only teams, summer camps, and league competitions.
Rugby and Hockey
Though traditionally male-dominated, these sports now include thriving female programs. Rugby is particularly active in southwest London, while hockey remains popular in the city’s north and east districts.
Top Individual Sports Among Teen Girls
Athletics and Track
Running events—like 100m sprints, long-distance, and hurdles—remain among the most accessible sports. Many schools hold inter-house competitions and send students to borough events.
Swimming
Schools with pools or partnerships with local leisure centers often run competitive swim teams. This is especially popular among girls aged 11–15 due to its mental and physical health benefits.
Tennis and Badminton
These racquet sports are accessible year-round and supported by the Lawn Tennis Association. Many girls join summer leagues or compete in indoor winter tournaments.
Martial Arts and Boxing
Growing in popularity through self-defense programs, martial arts like karate, taekwondo, and even boxing have become empowering choices. Girls often start through PE tasters and join after-school clubs or local studios.
Gymnastics and Trampolining
From school PE classes to local clubs, these acrobatic sports are highly attractive for younger teen girls, offering a balance of flexibility, strength, and artistry.
Emerging and Non-Traditional Sports
Flag Football
With support from NFL UK and Olympic interest, flag football has seen a huge boom in schools across London. It’s inclusive, non-contact, and team-focused—perfect for girls new to competitive sports.
Skateboarding and Roller Skating
These urban sports are part of a cultural shift. More girls are using public skateparks, joining group skate sessions, and even competing in junior events organized by London Skate or Sk8City.
Cheerleading and Dance
Competitive cheer squads are active in several boroughs. They combine athletic stunts with rhythm and teamwork—cheerleading now appears in roughly 37% of London schools.
Climbing and Outdoor Sports
Rock climbing, especially indoors, has become trendy among teens seeking adrenaline-filled alternatives. The opening of climbing gyms and school partnership programs has enabled more participation.
Horse Riding and Rowing
Though less common, these sports are available through specific academies and are especially popular in west London and the suburbs.
Where Teen Girls Can Participate in Sports
1. School Clubs
Most London schools run after-school sports programs in mainstream options like netball, football, and basketball. Some also provide access to gymnastics, trampolining, and swimming.
2. Borough Sports Schemes
Local councils run initiatives like the London Youth Games, providing access to over 30 sports for school-aged participants. Borough programs also support pathways into competitive teams.
3. Community and Grassroots Programs
Charities like Greenhouse Sports, Access Sport, and London Sport offer girls’ sessions in boxing, football, and dance. Many are free or low-cost, especially in underrepresented neighborhoods.
4. Private Academies and Clubs
From fencing clubs to rowing academies, private institutions provide niche opportunities. These often require membership or term fees but can offer elite coaching and national competitions.
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Summary Table of Popular Sports for Teen Girls in London
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Team Sports | Football, Netball, Basketball, Cricket, Rugby, Hockey |
| Individual Sports | Athletics, Swimming, Tennis, Martial Arts, Gymnastics |
| Emerging Sports | Flag Football, Skateboarding, Cheerleading, Climbing, Dance |
| Specialist Sports | Horse Riding, Rowing, Fencing, Trampolining |
Conclusion
London offers one of the richest environments for teen girls to explore and thrive through sports. Whether you’re passionate about football, drawn to cheerleading, or curious about skateboarding, there’s a space for every girl to belong, grow, and shine.
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Now’s the time—get active, stay inspired, and aim high.