Today is National Girls and Women in Sports Day in USA

From the WNBA:

[More info HERE]

“Play, Believe, Achieve", is this year’s focus of the 25th annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day.

Since 1987, the special event has become the initial moment to celebrate the participation, success and accomplishments of female athletes.

The celebration brings together women and girls from different walks of life to share their passion and journeys in the world of athletics.

“Sports have always played a huge role in my life,” Washington Mystics’ Forward, Marissa Coleman said, “It has shown me the world, introduced me to some of my best friends, and taught me life lessons.”

The first event, held in 1987 in Washington, D.C., to honor Olympic volleyball star Flo Hyman, has developed into a nationwide day of celebration.

On February 2, 2011, thousands plan to gather on Capitol Hill to honor National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) with professional athletes throughout the 50 states, including the WNBAs’ Washington Mystics and head coach, Trudi Lacey, uniting for the cause.

“The 25th anniversary of NGWSD has provided me and many others opportunities that we only dreamed about,” Lacey said, “The day represents all the people whose shoulders I and many others stand; a tremendous sacrifice was made to give women & girls the chance to participate in sports.”

Female sports icons are still playing a major part in overcoming difficult circumstances and these role models understand the importance of the celebration.

Leaders and volunteers plan to lobby on Capitol Hill and network with advocates from all five Coalition organizations; Girl Scouts of the USA, Girls Incorporated, the National Association for Girls and Women in Sport, National Women's Law Center, and the Women's Sports Foundation.

With the community’s help, sports educators, coaches, athletic directors, recreation directors, association members, sponsors, students, and parents across the country will show their support.

18 years of NGWSD celebrations have acknowledged the past, recognized current sports achievements and celebrated the move toward equality and access for women in sports.

“This day has provided me, and many others, opportunities that we only dreamed about,” Coach Lacey said, “I take a personal pledge to do my part so that other women and girls have even a greater experience than I have had.”