MOUNT OLIVE, N.C. - Female student-athletes from the various women's sports sponsored by the University of Mount Olive Athletic Department hosted girls from Mount Olive middle school virtually for the 35th Annual National Girl's and Women in Sports Day (NWGSD) on Wednesday.
National Girls and Women in Sports Day, sponsored by the Women's Sports Foundation, is a time to celebrate the extraordinary achievements in girls' and women's sports, and the positive influence athletic participation brings to their lives. NGWSD recognizes the ongoing effort towards equality and access for women in sports and the nation's commitment to expand sport and participation opportunities for all girls and future generations.
This year students from Mount Olive Middle School participated in a video group chat with student-athletes from various UMO athletic teams. This opportunity allowed for each UMO female student-athlete to share their experience of the importance of female athletes and of what hard work on and off the field, court, or course, looks like and honoring the progress and continued struggle for equality for women sports.
"Participating in NGWSD is always an honor, It's special because we get to share our stories of what being a collegiate athlete looks like and its always fun to hear the questions they have. We get to be an example of what they can look forward to," said UMO Cheerleader Morgan Williams.
"Even though we had to go virtual this year with our annual event for National Girls and Women in Sports Day, it was still a great program. Our student-athletes were able to share some valuable life lessons with the girls from Mount Olive Middle School and hopefully inspire them to continue to play sports and embrace their talents so they can one day share their college experience with other girls," said Associate Director of Athletics Dr. LaToya Lindsey.
The 2021 theme for NGWSD was "Lead Her Forward In 2021".
The Women's Sports Foundation applauds the vital role played by the individuals and organizations who join them in championing this effort: advocates seeking to protect Title IX and advance gender equity, athletes using their platform to inspire greatness, and coaches working daily to promote play.
For more than three decades, NGWSD has empowered women and girls to get moving, embrace physical activity and push past their limits. The courage, confidence, and character gained through sports participation are the very tools girls need to become the strong leaders of tomorrow.
