How sport can change young lives

Olympic champion Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill is on a mission to ensure schoolgirls achieve whatever their goals are in life

- HANNAH BRITT

A recent UK study found that girls who play after-school sport are 50% more likely to get a top job later in life - and Olympic champion Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill isn't surprised in the slightest.

“Now more than ever, especially having a daughter, I see the positive impact that sport can have on young girls,” says Jess, 39, mum to Reggie, 11, and Olivia, eight.

“There are so many transferable skills from sport, no matter what career you decide to go into. You learn about nutrition and about your body, you’re keeping active.

“You're learning discipline and focus. It also gives you a great opportunity to have a separate group of friends outside of school.”

Jess is a Weetabix all-star - part of a team of champions, including Lioness Leah Williamson, Sir Mo Farah, and Paralympian Ade Adepitan - who are stepping up to share their stories of success to help people achieve their goals.

“Sport has honestly changed my whole life,” says Jess, a track and field athlete who won a gold medal in the heptathlon at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

“It has given me opportunity, shaped my personality, allowed me to travel the world and meet some amazing people.”