National Girls & Women in Sports Day

HISTORY_

National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) began in 1987 as a special day in our nation's capital to recognize women's sports. The day united premiere organizations and elite female athletes to bring national attention to the promise of girls and women in sports. In 1987, NGWSD also served as a remembrance of Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman for her athletic achievements and dedication to promoting equality for women's sports; Hyman died of Marfan's Syndrome in 1986. NGWSD has since evolved into an event to acknowledge the accomplishments of female athletes, the positive influence of sports participation and the continuing struggle for equality for women in sports. NGWSD is powered by the Women's Sports Foundation, supported by its team of champion athletes, and celebrated throughout the year by schools and community‑serving organizations across all 50 states and Washington, D.C.

NATIONAL GIRLS AND WOMEN IN SPORTS DAY 2019 LEAD HER FORWARD February 6, 2019, marks the 33rd Annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). For more than three decades, this celebration has empowered women and girls to get moving, reap the benefits of physical activity and push past their limits both in sports and in life. The confidence, strength and character gained through sports and physical activity are the very tools girls need to become strong leaders, both in their own lives and in the world. This year's NGWSD theme is Lead Her Forward, to honor the many ways that sports push girls and women to achieve excellence and realize their boundless potential. The Women's Sports Foundation applauds the vital role played by the individuals and organizations championing girls and women in sports: advocates seeking to protect Title IX and advance gender equity, athletes using their powerful example to inspire greatness, and coaches working daily to unlock girls' limitless capabilities. This year, NGWSD celebrates all the girls and women across the nation leading us forward into a bright future. We invite you to recognize NGWSD in your community and join the Women's Sports Foundation as we Lead Her Forward in 2019.

Written by Women's Sport Foundation