National Girls and Women in Sports Day

The National Day of Girls and Women in Sports, abbreviated as N.G.W.S.D., is celebrated on February 2 this year and is all about breaking the gender stereotypes built around the sports industry. Have you ever felt excluded from a certain sport due to the fact that you are a girl? N.G.W.S.D. is all about the story that women belong to every aspect of sport. Continue to support, celebrate and inspire others by being fearless and playing like a girl, because what better way to play?

National Girls and Women in Sports Day’s origin

National Girls and Women's Day was first observed in 1987 to commemorate Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman and recognize her as the best female volleyball player of her time and work in promoting equal representation of women in sport. While he was playing in Japan, Hyman died of a genetic disorder, named Marfan syndrome.

Since then, the day has been developed to commemorate all female athletes, their achievements, the positive impact of women's participation in sport, and addressing the challenges associated with participation equality of women in sports activities. The day also celebrates the progress made since the enactment of the civil rights law, Title IX.

Title IX is a public law passed in 1972 that completely changed the story of women in sport. The act calls for equal participation in all federally funded programs and activities, which means that all public schools will ensure fair athletic opportunities for students, regardless of age and their gender. Title IX is a breakthrough in women's sports. Before that, only one in 27 girls had access to sports activities. Today, however, that statistic has dropped to two in five girls, which is a commendable improvement.

National Girls and Women's Day in Sports is celebrated in all 50 states. This day is often celebrated by hosting community events, awards ceremonies, and other sporting activities that inspire girls and women to be athletic and active.

What to do for National Girls and Women in Sports Day?

National Girls and Women in Sports Day aims to motivate girls and women to play sport, be full of energy and reach their full potential. So seize this day as an opportunity to play your favorite sport to boost your mind and body.

On this day to thank individuals and organizations that have been making efforts for the equal representation of women in sports activities. You can go on social media and post thank you notes to show off worthy people/organizations who have helped expand women's interest in sport and help more people learn about the sport.

If you're super excited for National Girls and Women in Sports Day, you can even plan, organize, and organize the N.G.W.S.D. activities. The Women's Sports Foundation has all the resources, event action kits and media kits with logos, posters, certificates, tips and checklists for organizing a kick-ass event.