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How sport hijabs give girls freedom to play football

City Academy Bristol Girls wearing hijabs playing footballCity Academy Bristol
The girls now feel more comfortable and inclusive playing sport at school

Specially-adapted hijabs are helping Muslim pupils have the confidence to play football.

City Academy in Bristol has had 75 of the hijabs donated, which have straps and means the girls do not need to worry about their headwear falling off.

It is hoped the clothing will make pupils feel comfortable while playing a range of school activities.

Student Hafsa said: "I think it would encourage girls to take up sport as it's easily adjustable, comfortable and doesn't come of easy. When you play sport in a normal Hijab there is the fear it would come off."

Pupil Mihaal added: "I really like the new sporting Hijabs, they are really nice and the material feels great. I Like the way it is designed, it stays on and is very comfortable to wear."

Dr Norah El-Gohary Dr Norah El-Gohary in a pink coat standing in front of Clifton Suspension Bridge.Dr Norah El-Gohary
Dr Norah El-Gohary believes there is a "brighter future" for Muslim girls in sport

Dr Norah El-Gohary, a cultural awareness officer with Bristol Muslim Cultural Society, is working with the school on the project.

She spoke to Muslim girls who told her they love sport but found PE kits too restrictive.

“My vision and dream finally came true when these young Muslim girls experienced that freedom to completely embrace the game without having to worry about anything getting in the way," said Dr El-Gohary.

"I look forward to a brighter future for Muslim females in sports. This will foster more engagement and inclusion which is much needed today in our society.”

The sports hijabs are made from lighter and more breathable material than traditional headwear.

Sweaty Betty Foundation, which works to promote physical activity among teenage girls, donated the specially-adapted hijabs to the school.

City Academy Bristol Five school pupils in sports hijabs stand next to their male teacher inside a football netCity Academy Bristol
Hardeep Konsal, head of inclusion at City Academy Bristol, says the new hijabs have encouraged more pupils to play sport

Government figures show only half of children and young people in the South West of England are considered to be physically active, with girls less likely to participate than boys.

Barriers include a fear of being judged, worries about doing PE during menstruation, further compounded by a lack of suitable kit.

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