Girls Allowed Fix On ITV

‘I think it’s important that, as women, if you want to do something and if you feel passionate about it, you go for it.’

Monica Sagar (26)* and Olivia Irlam (17) from Manchester are sending sporting stereotypes into a spin, by encouraging more women to try male-dominated activities such as skateboarding.

Their story was broadcast on ITV Granada Reports on Thursday 5th November.

In the TV item, the pair visit a local skate park, meet female rally driver, Georgia Shiels, and explain the motivation behind their campaign to break down gender barriers in sports.

‘I first tried to get into skating when I was a teenager because I really liked it and I wanted to give it a go,’ explains Monica.

‘But the guys that were skaters at my school said girls couldn’t skate. I was really put off by that because I felt I wasn’t welcome.

‘I still feel quite intimidated when I’m the only girl at the skate park.'

Dr Megan Todd, Senior Lecturer in Social Science at the University of Central Lancashire, features in the broadcast in support of Monica and Olivia’s campaign.

‘The stereotype is that women are weak and fragile, and risk-taking activities such as skateboarding are not for young girls,’ Dr Todd says.

‘Seventy-four percent of women would like to do more sport, so it’s absolutely essential that we break down these barriers.’

Oliva adds: ‘Monica and I have both been there. We know how it feels.

‘I think women getting into sports which are typically male-dominated is a really good stepping stone for other aspects of life.’

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*Note: Some Fixers exceed the age range of 16 to 25 during the course of their project.