A vibrant movement we celebrate annually, NGWSD honors the achievements of girls and women in sports and continues to Lead Her Forward by acknowledging the power of sports to unlock her limitless potential.
Communities across the country are hosting events in conjunction with the NGWSD celebration. Even if your event is virtual or if February 5 doesn’t fit your calendar – make sure to post your event today!
NGWSD recognizes student-athletes, champion athletes, coaches, administrators and lawmakers committed to providing equitable access to sports for all girls and women.
I truly believe access to sports, both as a young child and professionally, has given me the confidence, resilience, work ethic, and humble spirit that benefits me in every aspect of my life. I’ve grown so much as an individual and created relationships that will be in my life forever.
Sports are crucial for young girls in building successful habits, strong character, and learning how to work towards achieving a goal. I grew up playing football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, softball, and practicing martial arts. Sports helped grow my discipline, self-control, and leadership abilities leading me to pursue a career in coaching football. I hope to see continued growth in support, viewership, and opportunities for women of all ages to compete, play, and grow together on the field.
Equality in access, support, and opportunities for women who play or work in sports is paramount for the next generation. The growth of women’s sports and their contributions to the sports world on and off the field keeps growing. I am excited to watch as we keep creating space and opportunities for everyone to play.
My favorite memory from sports is probably all the fun relationships I have built over the years. Sports gives you an outlet to meet so many new people from so many diverse backgrounds. I cherish that deeply because it has made me very educated and well-rounded with other cultures.
Being a part of sports has opened doors for me that I didn’t even know existed. As a woman of color, I learned early that I’d have to work harder than most just to get what I think I deserved. With that I gained an unwavering sense to believe when no one else does. That optimism and energy has led me to opportunities to travel as a player, and now as a coach to give back to the sport that gave me so much.
I hope to see the playing field even out. Less men coaching women’s sports. Or for society to let more women coach men’s sports. Equal Pay, not only for athletes but coaches as well. To have the same roles at the same place and the difference in pay be thousands of dollars is just not right. Your gender nor your race speaks of your value and what you bring to the table. Especially when everybody is supposed to eat.
Sports give women an incredible platform to showcase their strength and their athleticism. I’m so thankful to have had amazing women athlete role models such as my mom who played multiple D3 sports.
I began playing softball at the young age of six. Initially, it was my father’s idea to play because he wanted to share his passion for the game. From the moment I held the glove in my hand, I felt a special connection to the game and my father. As years passed, I played different sports, but softball was what I gravitated to.
Playing softball has allowed me to travel to many places and provided me with many once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, such as participating in a cultural exchange program in Cuba, representing Puerto Rico in the Junior National Team in the Women’s World Cup 19U, and studying and playing softball at Cornell University. The collegiate student-athlete, especially, life has taught me so many lessons and skills that have challenged me to grow as a person.
Access to sports has profoundly shaped who I am as a person, by fostering values like resilience, perseverance, and discipline. It has undoubtedly boosted my confidence, instilled self-belief, and empowered me to chase my dreams. I would not be the woman I am today without sports!
In the future, I hope to see increased visibility, funding, and widespread recognition for women’s sports, ensuring fair opportunities for all and inspiring future generations. I also hope for continued expansion of participation opportunities at the grassroots and professional levels that promotes a culture where women and girls can thrive athletically.
Being exposed to sports at such a young age changed my life for the better and it helped me create a path for more girls and women of my community to dream big too. From the moment I decided to train for my first marathon at the age of 16, sports enabled me to believe in myself, to dream big, to be more confident and push my imaginary “limits”.
Use this form to download free resources designed to help you plan, organize, promote and host your own NGWSD activities. Please contact Morgan Powell at MPowell@WomensSportsFoundation.org with any questions.
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As WSF wraps up our 50th anniversary, we thank you for being part of the movement Billie Jean started—protecting Title IX, expanding access for girls and women in sports, and investing over $100 million to break down barriers.
With your support, we can create a future where all girls and women can play. When they do, they lead—and we all win. Don’t wait until December 31st—make your gift today.
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