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2018 National Girls and Women in Sports Day Expo

2017 DC National Girls and Women in Sports Day Expo

What is National Girls and Women in Sports Day:

Participation in National Girls and Women in Sports Day is part of the DCSAA’s commitment to gender equity in sports and increasing the awareness of Title IX issues and promoting the participation of girls and women in sports.

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. 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 celebrated annually across all 50 states with community-based events, award ceremonies and other celebratory activities. 

DC National Girls and Women in Sports Day Expo:

Last year marked the second annual DC National Girls and Women in Sports Day Expo in partnership with the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. The Expo is one of more than 1,000 events that take place across the country for National Girls and Women in Sports Day each year. Only 40% of high school girls are currently playing sports, leaving three-in-five girls without the opportunity to play. Decades of research show that girls who play sports have better health, higher self-esteem, greater academic achievement, stronger leadership skills, greater economic opportunity and so much more. The DCSAA and DPR are proud to work together through NGWSD to get more girls in the game and expand their opportunities both in sports and in life.

The Expo allows over 300 girls, young women, and their parents to survey over 30 different organizations that offer sports and physical activities for girls. Student participants are also able to try over 14 different sports during sports demonstrations and clinics conducted by participating organizations.