The goal of this study was to address the barriers experienced by African American adolescent girls who were engaged in sport in urban areas and how these girls who continued participation overcome the barriers. This study also sought to better understand the components of quality sports and physical activity programming that will engage and encourage continued participation among this population. Qualitative methodology in the form of focus group interviews were used for this descriptive study. Participants consisted of 13 African American adolescent girls between the ages of 13 and 17 in grades 9 through 12 who were participants in an organized Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) volleyball program in an urban environment. A social ecological framework was utilized and findings revealed that intrapersonal, interpersonal, environmental, and sociocultural factors were significant in influencing sport and physical activity participation. Results revealed a number of challenges and barriers to sport participation including concerns regarding image, identity related issues (race/gender), criticism from significant others, resources and access limitations, lack of skills and ability, and the negative influence of coaches. Strategies and support systems utilized by girls in this study included the positive influence and support from others, exhibiting persistence and determination, navigating image concerns, and possessing a positive attitude and high levels of confidence. Professionals that work with adolescents need to have an understanding of the relationships among the personal, social, cultural, and environmental factors girls experience and use this knowledge in designing and implementing interventions that will best serve this population. Implications for program development included providing opportunities that are fun and offer a variety of activities, are gender specific and culturally relevant, and have African American females in coaching and administrative positions to serve as role models.
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