March is the National Women’s History Month; a time to honor and celebrate women and their success. This month-long national celebration has been in effect since 1995.
Throughout the month, We W.I.L.L. Thru Sports has recognized and celebrated the contributions women have made through their struggles, hard work, talents, and determination to our American history.
The National Woman Suffrage Association
One of the most monumental pieces of history was the National Woman Suffrage Association. It was founded by two historical women- Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony. They played quite an instrumental role in helping women gain the right to vote. In addition to this, they also struggled to allow women all the rights of a US citizen just like men.
This led to many other doors being opened for women in legislative, educational, and vocational areas. Years later, we moved forward with our first female vice president. The appointment of Kamala Harris as our vice president marks the beginning of a new era of women empowerment and equal rights.
Women’s contributions to the history of sports
Women in sports have also been actively contributing a lot to history. Below, you will read how women are being acknowledged and respected as broadcasters, managers, coaches, referee officials, and athletes.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at women’s accomplishments and their contribution to the history of sports over the past few years:
Beth Mowins
Beth Mowins became the first woman to announce a nationally televised NFL game working for ESPN in 2017. Moreover, during this National Women’s History Month 2021, she became the first woman to broadcast play-by-play for the Chicago Cubs MLB game.
Kim NG
Just this past November, Kim NG became the first female general manager in Major League Baseball. This was a huge win for young females striving to be in the sports world and for those professionals who want to move up the ladder. Visit our prior post for more on Kim NG.
Becky Hammon
Next, in December 2020, Assistant Coach Becky Hammon made history when she became the first woman to act as Head Coach during an NBA game. Click here to read more about the ejection of the head coach Gregg Popovich which led to Hammon making history.
Tyler Wright
During this same time, Tyler Wright also made headlines, breaking the surfing record for women. Wright became the first woman to win a championship tour event in Oahu, Hawaii, at Pipeline. This is one of the most dangerous surf reefs. Huge waves reaching a height of up to 20ft break in very shallow waters. That’s where the surfer has to manage the ride and it’s not an easy task to achieve.
Two Female Referees in a single NBA game
Quickly moving on to the New Year, January 2021, two women were assigned to referee the same NBA game with 1 male referee for the first time in the history of sports. All NBA games have three referees per game and have a long history of male dominance in almost all aspects. This explains why it was such a big deal for women and their role in sports.
Sarah Thomas
In February 2021, Sarah Thomas made history by being the first NFL referee to officiate a Super Bowl game. Moreover, she is an inspiration to young girls who dream big. Her accomplishments encourage girls to not question their capabilities and desire to achieve the impossible. Again, a big deal!
Sedona Prince
March 2021- College women gained acknowledgment and respect from NCAA during the current NCAA Women’s Championship after speaking out about deserving the same opportunities as men. Sedona Prince of the Oregon Ducks, posted about the huge difference in the NCAA women’s weight room compared to what’s offered to men’s NCAA players. Shortly after this TikTok went viral, the women were given a brand new weight room.
National Women’s History Month 2021
Women are definitely breaking barriers in baseball, football, surfing, basketball, and numerous other fields of life. These women, and many others like them, are truly teaching us the power of phrases like, “run like a girl” and “win like a girl”. These phrases are getting the respect and approval they deserve, now more than ever!
We W.I.L.L. Thru Sports Celebrates National Women’s History Month 2021
We W.I.L.L. Thru Sports understands the importance of women and their role in the advancement of sports. It has seen the positive effects sports involvement has on the female participants.
Hence, We W.I.L.L. Thru Sports will continue seeking out ways to include females and to support women in a variety of settings, such as the ones demonstrated above.
We’ll continue to foster healthy lifestyles, self-confidence, and empowerment for our young female athletes during National Women’s History Month 2021 and beyond. We encourage you to join us and keep supporting all women for the rest of March and beyond that!
Happy National Women’s Month from We W.I.L.L. Thru Sports!
EMPOWER OUR YOUTH
