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# Scholl & Fischer COACH ABROAD GbR: COACH ABROAD places volunteer coaches in social sports projects abroad that match their personal sporting skills.

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://www.coachabroad.de/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Climbing palm trees and visiting schools – Nicola on a project visit to Tanzania](https://www.coachabroad.de/nicola-visits-sportsprojects-tanzania-zanzibar/): From Dar es Salaam to Stone Town on Zanzibar: Nicola from COACH ABROAD held promising talks at schools and projects in Tanzania. She shared on her sporting expertise and once again left an active trace as a handball coach. Culinary and cultural experiences were also part of the trip, always in the service of volunteer work in sport and to provide authentic reports for prospective volunteer coaches abroad.
- [Humour, energy, valuable expertise – a volunteer sports coach in Tanzania](https://www.coachabroad.de/interview-volunteer-coach-tanzania/): ‘Just do it and enjoy!’ – In this interview, Wolf talks about his exciting experience volunteering as a handball coach with our partner project Go4Goals in Tanzania.
- [Karibu Kenya – travelling with Nicola on a project visit](https://www.coachabroad.de/nicola-visits-sport-projects-kenya/): Nicola, founder of COACH ABROAD, visited sports projects in Kenya – from Nairobi to Meru. Between workshops, training sessions, and meetings with host families and volunteers, she gained insights into how volunteering in sport works on the ground and what adventures await off the pitch.
- [Why you should volunteer abroad for at least 2 months](https://www.coachabroad.de/why-volunteer-abroad-for-at-least-2-months/): Volunteering abroad for at least two months provides a deeper personal experience, fosters lasting relationships and enables real change in the project. A longer stay allows you, as a volunteer, to build confidence, overcome challenges and gain valuable cultural insights. This time also strengthens your social skills and gives you the opportunity to experience long-term friendships and successes.
- [Handball Supercups 2024 in Kenya and Tanzania: Sport and education unite children and young people](https://www.coachabroad.de/handball-supercups-2024-in-kenya-and-tanzania/): The 2024 Handball Supercups in Kenya and Tanzania provided not only sporting fun for numerous children and young people, but also valuable educational sessions. As well as thrilling handball matches, the focus was on environmental awareness, mental health and social skills. Thanks to dedicated coaches, volunteers and sponsors, the events were a big success.
- [COACH ABROAD 2024: A new start together!](https://www.coachabroad.de/coach-abroad-2024-new-start-together/): Following the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, we have reorganised our placement service for volunteer sports coaches abroad. Despite the challenges, we remain committed to social sport projects for children and young people in disadvantaged areas. This requires patience and adaptation to current political and economic circumstances. But together, we are making a fresh start to recruit more volunteer coaches and develop sustainable sports projects.

## Pages
- [Glossary: Sport Volunteering & Sport Development](https://www.coachabroad.de/glossary-sport-volunteering-sport-development/): Sports volunteering, voluntourism, white saviour complex & co. – the most important terms relating to volunteering in sport explained in a nutshell.
- [Request volunteer application info](https://www.coachabroad.de/request-volunteer-application-info/): Send us some brief information about yourself and we will get back to you either by email or phone.
- [Voluntary service abroad from already 2 months upwards: Get involved as a sports coach in social projects!](https://www.coachabroad.de/volunteer-as-sports-coach-abroad/): Your Volunteer Service Abroad: Get involved as a volunteer coach with COACH ABROAD in social sports projects in South Africa, Kenya or Tanzania. Ideal for school leavers, students, after vocational training or during a sabbatical. Requirements: sports experience, enjoyment of working with children and young people, adaptability and at least 2 months time. Benefit from authentic experiences, support local communities and broaden your horizons. COACH ABROAD offers transparent projects and fair rates. Apply now and become a coach abroad for sustainable social development through sport.
- [Guide for volunteer sports coaches abroad](https://www.coachabroad.de/infopoint-volunteers/): Motivation, safety and expectations versus reality: Find out everything you need to know about being a volunteer sports coach during your stay abroad in a social sports project.
- [Information about COACH ABROAD](https://www.coachabroad.de/all-about-coach-abroad/): Who we are, what we do and why you should volunteer as a sports coach abroad with COACH ABROAD.
- [Expectations and reality: Municipal and private basic services](https://www.coachabroad.de/expectations-reality-municipal-private-basic-services/): Power and water outages, open waste disposal and a lack of recycling systems are part of everyday life in many project regions in Africa. Depending on the project location, volunteers living in Kenya, Tanzania or South Africa experience basic services that differ greatly from European standards. COACH ABROAD informs volunteers about these conditions in advance so that their first impression on site does not come as an unprepared surprise.
- [Expectations and reality: Host family accommodation](https://www.coachabroad.de/expectations-reality-host-family-accommodation/): Accommodation with a host family may differ significantly from what you are used to, and this difference is often intentional. The type of building, the climate and the local social conditions all have a significant impact on life with a host family. Host families offer genuine cultural insightsand the opportunity to experience the everyday life of the community first-hand. COACH ABROAD prepares volunteers to experience these differences as enriching rather than restrictive.
- [Who are the people behind COACH ABROAD?](https://www.coachabroad.de/people-behind-coach-abroad/): COACH ABROAD was founded by Nicola Scholl, a former German handball Bundesliga player who worked as a volunteer in South Africa in 2009 and founded the sports and youth development organisation PlayHandball ZA in 2013. She advises the DOSB and GIZ on sport for development and is the initiator of the first handball and education tournament series in South Africa. Ronny Fischer is a freelance designer and world traveller who believes that travel and intercultural understanding can have a positive and lasting impact on young people. Both are united by the mission of connecting sports enthusiasts with social projects that have a real impact.
- [Overcoming the challenge of dependency](https://www.coachabroad.de/overcoming-challenge-dependency/): Well-intentioned volunteer projects can inadvertently create dependencies if they focus on short-term solutions rather than sustainable development. COACH ABROAD therefore relies on partnership-based cooperation on an equal footing: volunteers support local coaches and project managers instead of taking over their roles. The aim is to empower people to help themselves by sharing knowledge, building local skills and providing economic support to host families. Cultural sensitivity and involving all stakeholders in decision-making processes are just as important as ensuring that the deployment period enables real progress.
- [COACH ABROAD](https://www.coachabroad.de/): Share your sports skills and expertise and help others create new opportunities: Volunteer as a sports coach in social sports projects abroad.
- [The “white saviour complex” in volunteering](https://www.coachabroad.de/the-white-saviour-complex-in-volunteering/): The 'White Saviour Complex' is the tendency of privileged people from the Global North to present themselves as saviours in development contexts. This tendency is often unconscious and despite good intentions. In the context of volunteering, this can manifest as paternalism, short-term assignments that lack depth, and an ignorance of local perspectives. COACH ABROAD openly addresses this phenomenon in the application process: volunteers are specifically prepared to act as learning partners, not as helpers from above.
- [Misconceptions about volunteering](https://www.coachabroad.de/misconceptions-about-volunteering/): Many potential volunteers are deterred by common misconceptions: volunteering in Africa is too dangerous, too expensive or has no impact anyway. COACH ABROAD dispels these myths in an objective and honest way. While security risks do exist, they vary greatly from region to region and can easily be managed with the right preparation. Costs can be calculated transparently. Furthermore, there is a high demand for qualified sports coaches in community-based projects precisely because state support for sport is lacking in many regions.
- [How to stay safe and manage risks when volunteering abroad](https://www.coachabroad.de/stay-safe-manage-risks-when-volunteering-abroad/): Volunteering abroad is enriching, but requires realistic preparation for potential safety risks. In countries such as South Africa or Kenya, there are increased safety risks in certain urban areas. COACH ABROAD recommends: Before departure, find out about safe and unsafe areas. Follow the advice of your host family and the local project team, use public transport during the day and safe alternatives such as ride sharing in the evening. With common sense and good preparation, most risks can be minimised significantly.
- [Health tips to help you be a successful sports volunteer](https://www.coachabroad.de/health-tips-successful-sports-volunteer/): Health and preventive care are key issues when volunteering abroad – and ones that need to be addressed on an individual and professional basis. This page provides a general overview of what volunteers should bear in mind: from first-aid kits to handling food and drinking water locally to the question of international health insurance. Specific medical recommendations, such as vaccinations or prophylaxis, should always be discussed with a doctor, ideally during a travel medicine consultation before departure.
- [Motivation and preparation for working abroad as a sports volunteer](https://www.coachabroad.de/motivation-preparation-sports-volunteer-abroad/): If you're considering volunteering abroad as a sports coach, it's important to have a clear understanding of your motivations beforehand, as only genuine passion will ensure a fulfilling experience. COACH ABROAD supports you in your preparations: from clarifying your personal goals and choosing the right project to answering practical questions about visas, health and intercultural competence. A well-prepared start not only increases your personal learning success, but also maximises the long-term impact on the children and young people involved in the project.
- [Teamwork, respect, responsibility, health – the positive effects of sport](https://www.coachabroad.de/positive-effects-of-sport/): Although sport is deeply rooted in the culture of many African countries – Kenyan runners dominate international endurance sports and West African footballers play in Europe's top leagues – many children and young people are denied access to organised training. A lack of equipment, long distances to travel, crime in the surrounding area and cultural barriers prevent them from participating. However, structured sports training has been proven to improve concentration, self-confidence and social skills. In countries such as Kenya, it can also provide access to educational support through scholarship programmes.
- [The COACH ABROAD Blog](https://www.coachabroad.de/the-coach-abroad-blog/): Stay up to date with blog news and updates about COACH ABROAD, the placement service for sports volunteers abroad.
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.coachabroad.de/privacy-policy/): The following information will provide you with an easy to navigate overview of what will happen with your personal data when you visit this website. The term “personal data” comprises all data that can be used to personally identify you. For detailed information about the subject matter of data protection, please consult our Data Protection Declaration, which we have included beneath this copy.
- [Imprint](https://www.coachabroad.de/imprint/): Nicola Scholl / Ronny Fischer
- [Register your project for free with COACH ABROAD](https://www.coachabroad.de/register-project/): To find the volunteers you need to support and develop your sports project, register your project with COACH ABROAD.
- [The “Badge of Trust” by COACH ABROAD](https://www.coachabroad.de/the-badge-of-trust/): The ‘Badge of Trust’ is COACH ABROAD's seal of approval for trustworthy partner projects, awarded in bronze, silver or gold. Several criteria are evaluated, including transparent and reliable communication with volunteers, positive testimonials from previous participants, and sustained efforts to ensure quality in the project. We also want to motivate our partner projects to achieve excellence.
- [Apply to volunteer as a sports coach abroad](https://www.coachabroad.de/apply-to-volunteer-as-a-sports-coach-abroad/): Apply now! We are looking for committed sports coaches who are willing to use their expertise to support social projects and develop local coaches.
- [About COACH ABROAD: Where sport meets social impact](https://www.coachabroad.de/coach-abroad-where-sport-meets-social-impact/): COACH ABROAD connects sports enthusiasts with social sports projects in Africa, currently in South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania. The focus is not on charity, but on sustainable development: volunteers share their sports expertise with local coaches without taking over their role. COACH ABROAD was founded by Nicola Scholl, a former Bundesliga handball player with over a decade of experience in sports development in Africa.
- [Reasons why you should go abroad with COACH ABROAD](https://www.coachabroad.de/reasons-for-coach-abroad/): COACH ABROAD offers three core features: All partner projects are actively reviewed and carry a multi-level seal of approval. The pricing models are transparent, and the programme fees cover the organisation and support of the volunteer placements as well as accommodation, meals and the ongoing operation of the projects on site. And instead of interchangeable mass offerings, COACH ABROAD specifically arranges community-based projects in which volunteers take on real responsibility and achieve visible results.

## FAQs
- [When can I start supporting a sport project?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/when-can-i-start-supporting-a-sport-project/): In principle, assignments are possible throughout the year. However, the exact start date is influenced by various factors, such as school holidays (the school year in many project countries begins in mid-January and ends in mid-December), local rainy seasons, national holidays, and religious periods such as Ramadan in Muslim countries. COACH ABROAD discusses the planned start date individually with the partner project and recommends applying well in advance.
- [Why does COACH ABROAD recommend a minimum placement period of two months?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/why-do-we-recommend-a-placement-of-at-least-2-months/): Staying for at least two months allows you to gain a deeper cultural experience, build stronger relationships with the children and coaches, and make a more significant and lasting impact on the project. Short stays rarely allow you to make real progress.
- [What can I do at the weekend and in my free time?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-can-i-do-on-weekends-and-in-my-free-time/): There are many ways to spend your free time: excursions to historical sites, nature parks or markets, taking part in activities with your host family, improving your language skills or make use of local sports facilities outside the project. COACH ABROAD recommends actively participating in local life rather than isolating yourself. This deepens cultural understanding and strengthens community trust. You should always discuss activities outside your accommodation with your host family or the project management team, especially in areas with limited security.
- [Can or must I cook in the host family?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/do-i-have-to-or-can-i-cook-in-my-host-family/): It depends on how your host family is organised. Some will cook for you, while others will expect you to help out. Cultural differences are normal and will enrich your experience. Make sure you clarify any special dietary requirements in advance.
- [Can I use the local public transport system?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/can-i-use-public-transport/): Yes, you can. It is safer during the day and when travelling in groups. In the evening, alternatives such as taxis or ride-sharing are more advisable. Your host family and the project management team will explain what you need to bear in mind in terms of safe routes, timetables and procedures.
- [What kind of environment will I be living in and what can I expect from the local community?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-kind-of-environment-will-i-live-in-as-a-coach-and-what-can-i-expect-from-the-community/): Most partner projects are located in deprived urban areas or rural regions, such as townships on the outskirts of Cape Town and villages in rural Kenya and Tanzania. Living and training conditions can vary considerably from region to region, often differing significantly from what you are used to. Infrastructure, shopping facilities and leisure activities are often limited. However, the communities are generally warm and welcoming. Good preparation is important: those who inform themselves in advance about the country, culture, and specific location of their assignment will find it much easier to settle in.
- [Will I receive information about my host family before I arrive, and will I be able to contact them?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/will-i-receive-information-about-my-host-family-before-i-arrive-and-can-i-contact-them/): Detailed information about the host family is often only available shortly before departure, as the partner projects have to take many factors into account: proximity to the project location, length of stay, privacy, family situation and available places. COACH ABROAD deliberately focuses on accommodation with real host families rather than in hostels or volunteer dormitories – this promotes deeper cultural insights and supports the family financially. Once the coaching has been confirmed, the project mentor will inform us about the accommodation.
- [What happens when I arrive at the airport?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-happens-when-i-arrive-at-the-airport/): Transfers to and from the airport are usually organised by the partner project, and you will be picked up by a trusted person. Please inform us and the project of your flight details and any delays well in advance.
- [Will I have free time to travel during my volunteering placement?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/will-i-have-time-off-during-my-placement-to-explore-the-country-and-travel/): Yes, weekends, school holidays and days off are ideal for exploring, going on excursions and travelling. However, it is important to remember that your work on the project takes priority. For example, if sports tournaments take place at the weekend, you should discuss your personal plans with your team in advance.
- [Will I be supported by local coaches or a contact person in the project?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/will-i-be-supported-by-a-local-contact-or-coach/): Yes. At the start, the project mentor will introduce you to the team, the current working methods and the training plan. He or she will also be your first point of contact if there are any problems with the project or the host family. Once you are familiar with the projects, you can carry out the sports training independently, from planning individual training sessions to organising tournaments and community events. Creativity, strong communication skills and a hands-on mentality are required, always in consultation with the local managers.
- [What are my tasks when volunteering in sports?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-are-my-tasks-as-a-volunteer/): You will train children and young people, plan training sessions, assist at sporting events, organise workshops and help with fundraising or public relations. Depending on the project, you may be actively involved in training, organisation and community work, or you may also take on creative tasks.
- [What are ‘future activities’ in the project description?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-are-future-activities-in-the-project-description/): ‘Future activities’ are additional sports that are planned to be introduced in a partner project in the future. If you have experience in these sports, you can help to develop new training formats and get more children and young people excited about other sports.
- [Why do I need an extended police clearance certificate?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/why-do-i-need-an-extended-police-clearance-certificate/): A current certificate is mandatory for working with children. It confirms your trustworthiness and ensures compliance with the security standards of all partner projects. The certificate must be in English and no older than three months.
- [What happens if my application is rejected?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-happens-if-my-application-is-not-accepted/): Although we cannot guarantee a placement, rejections are rare. If a project is full or the requirements are not met, we will suggest suitable alternatives that match your skills and interests.
- [When should I apply and is there an application deadline?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/when-should-i-apply-and-is-there-an-application-deadline/): There is no fixed application deadline. However, you should ideally apply four months in advance to leave enough time for visa applications, necessary vaccinations, booking flights and other preparations.
- [How does the application process work?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/how-does-the-application-process-work-how-can-i-apply/): The application process at COACH ABROAD consists of several steps: Once you have selected a suitable country and partner project, we will send you an application form. Please send us the completed form along with the required documents, including an extended police clearance certificate in English and any proof of sporting experience that may be required. This will be followed by a personal online interview with us to discuss your expectations, skills and any questions you may have.
- [Are there any restrictions on choice of a project?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/are-there-any-restrictions-in-choosing-my-project/): In principle, there are no exclusions based on gender, origin or religion; the only requirement is that the sporting criteria are met. However, some projects require female or male supervision for content-related reasons, for example in gender-specific sports groups. These requirements are clearly stated in the project profile and discussed during the interview. COACH ABROAD does not ask any questions about sexual orientation, but points out that in some countries, social or legal conditions may be relevant, which should be researched in advance.
- [What are the requirements for sports volunteering abroad?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-are-the-requirements-for-sports-volunteering-abroad/): You will need solid athletic skills, motivation, and an open attitude. While a coaching certificate is helpful, it is not essential. What's more important is your willingness to take on responsibility, act spontaneously, and embrace new cultural situations.
- [Are there other volunteers in the project and can I get in touch with former volunteers?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/are-there-other-volunteers-in-the-project-and-can-i-get-in-touch-with-former-volunteers/): The number of other volunteers on site depends on the size of the project, how many places are available, and the season. While working with other volunteers makes it easier to settle in and encourages spontaneous training ideas, it also carries the risk of less immersion in the local community. If you are the only volunteer, however, you will grow more quickly in terms of personal responsibility and cultural integration. COACH ABROAD is happy to share the experiences of former coaches. However, for data protection reasons, direct contact with alumni cannot be guaranteed for all projects.
- [What services does the host project offer me on site?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-does-the-host-project-offer-me-and-what-services-are-included-in-the-programme/): The partner project typically arranges accommodation with a host family, meals, and an airport transfer to the project location. Upon arrival, you will receive a personal orientation covering working methods, local life and cultural customs. Your specific tasks will be discussed and agreed with you individually. The core services, including the typical daily routine and project description, are clearly listed in the respective project profile.
- [What exactly does COACH ABROAD offer me?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-does-coach-abroad-offer-me/): COACH ABROAD is a placement service that connects volunteer sports coaches with social sports projects abroad. The team handles the entire application process, helps you select the right position, and provides support before and during your stay abroad. This means you will experience growth in your intercultural skills, gain practical work experience in other cultures, and have the opportunity to have your assignment recognised as a mandatory internship.
- [What are the costs of volunteering, what is included and what is not?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-are-the-costs-of-volunteering-what-is-included-and-what-is-not/): The project-related participation fee for COACH ABROAD starts at approximately €1,900 for two months and covers accommodation with a host family, meals, airport transfer and organisational project costs. The exact amount varies depending on the partner project, location and duration of the assignment and is clearly stated in the respective project profile. The fee does not include flights, visas, travel health insurance and personal expenses – these must be organised and financed independently.
- [Why do social projects need sports volunteers?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/why-do-social-projects-need-sports-volunteers/): Sport creates structure in disadvantaged communities, promotes personal development and strengthens social cohesion. Many social sports projects in Africa are led by dedicated local coaches, but they need professional support, fresh ideas and additional training capacity to further develop their programmes. As a volunteer coach, you contribute sports expertise that is often not available locally, thereby helping to permanently improve access to quality sports for children and young people.
- [What does the COACH ABROAD ‘Badge of Trust’ mean?](https://www.coachabroad.de/faq/what-is-the-coach-abroad-badge-of-trust-in-bronze-silver-or-gold/): The ‘Badge of Trust’ rates projects in bronze, silver or gold and shows you at a glance their transparency, communication quality and sustainability. It serves both as a guide for volunteers and as motivation for partner projects.

## Locations
- [Patchwork Kenya: A travel destination full of traditions and natural wonders, but also many challenges.](https://www.coachabroad.de/location/kenya-traditions-nature-challenges/): Kenya is a fascinating, culturally diverse country with one of the most progressive constitutions in Africa. However, it also struggles with poverty, densely populated slums and social tensions. Volunteers working as sports coaches can have a real impact on community-based projects: sport not only improves physical fitness, but also provides access to education, for example through scholarships awarded for sporting achievement. The country information provides an overview of Kenya, its climate and everyday life there.
- [South Africa: Stunning scenery, fascinating wilderness and a vibrant lifestyle](https://www.coachabroad.de/location/south-africa-scenery-wilderness-lifestyle/): South Africa is one of the most popular and diverse destinations for international volunteers, offering a rich cultural, scenic and social experiences. As a sports coach, you will work in schools and community-based projects in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, where children and young people have a keen enthusiasm for sport despite difficult living conditions. The country information provides information about the social background, life with a host family, safety aspects and practical preparation tips for your assignment in South Africa.

## Projects
- [Providing sport, education and mentoring for the next generation through basketball](https://www.coachabroad.de/project/pamoja-basketball-education-mentoring/): Pamoja Basketball in Arusha empowers young people through sport, promotes gender equality and provides a first-class education through basketball.
- [Use football to create a healthy and safe environment for young people in Thika](https://www.coachabroad.de/project/football-create-healthy-safe-environment-young-people-thika/): We train coaches and teachers in play-based methods, which are then used in schools and communities to meet the needs and aspirations of local young people.
- [Support Kenyan youth in Machakos by coaching handball and other sports](https://www.coachabroad.de/project/support-kenyan-youth-machakos-coaching-handball-sports/): We use the team sport of handball to create a diverse and inclusive environment where the next generation can build self-esteem, skills and knowledge.
- [Empower children from the Berg River communities in Piketberg through sport](https://www.coachabroad.de/project/empower-children-berg-river-communities-piketberg-sport/): PSDF focuses on facilitating sports and cultural development and helping young people discover their hidden potential through sports and cultural development training.
- [Create safe learning spaces for Kenyan children and youth in Sidundo](https://www.coachabroad.de/project/create-safe-learning-spaces-kenyan-children-youth-sidundo/): To create safe learning spaces for children and young people to make healthy choices for personal and community development through sport.
- [Support young people in Cape Town for a sustainable future through handball](https://www.coachabroad.de/project/support-young-people-cape-town-sustainable-future-handball/): To empower young people through the sport of handball, giving them the skills they need to create a sustainable future for themselves and their communities.
- [Teach handball and support education programmes in Mlamleni](https://www.coachabroad.de/project/teach-handball-support-education-programmes-mlamleni/): Our project involves children and young people, both in and out of school, to learn and play handball effectively.

## Sports
- [Football training for children and young people with limited resources](https://www.coachabroad.de/sport/football-training-children-young-people-limited-resources/): As a coach, using football and the right approaches and techniques, you can have a huge impact on the development of young people, not only from a sporting perspective, but also in terms of their personal development and social integration.
- [Handball as an inclusive sport with limited training opportunities](https://www.coachabroad.de/sport/handball-sport-training-limited-opportunities/): Flexible, simple and with low requirements: Handball is an ideal sport for physical activity in social sport projects. It promotes physical, mental and social development and transcends gender boundaries by appealing equally to girls and boys.