Unless your head is buried in the sand, you probably know that women lag way behind men when it comes to being recognized in sports. In school, it’s an understatement to say that most of the funding goes to the high attendance sports played by the men. Girls not only have to compete against one another in sports, they have to compete against our society’s tradition of tucking them away in some sort of passive, secondary role. Boys are encouraged to play sports to teach them teamwork, striving for perfection, make them healthy and fit and give them a sense of achievement.
Why should it be any different for girls to be recognized in sports?
Okay, that’s totally my opinion. I invite you to argue with me…please. I’d like for you to win that argument. Show me it ain’t so. My mind can be changed, but I need some evidence. I admit it’s great to see movies about female major league teams of by-gone days and how much heart and soul they put into the game. But I’d prefer to see “reality” TV on Sunday afternoon of real sports heroines competing today instead of actresses portraying unrecognized women sports legends from decades ago.
Organization that recognizes women in sports
I’ll get off my soap box and get to the point. There’s a terrific area organization dedicated to recognizing women in sports and their achievements. It’s called “WIN,” Women Intersport Network. Their 4th annual Awards Banquet to celebrated the foremost leaders in women sports in Springfield, Missouri. These award-winners are women who have lived their passion, become exceptional role models and blazed the trail for women’s sports in this community.
Dr. Nancy gave the keynote address. It’s a subject that she’s very passionate about. So it was guaranteed to be an inspirational evening and well-worth attending. Check out the WIN website for more information about the organization and the banquet. If you don’t have an organization like it in your community, maybe it’s time to get organized. The only way women can shine is if we turn on the lights. We need to celebrate and encourage one another to succeed in all areas of life. That’s how we turn all women into winners.
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