It’s a right of passage to be able to say that you grew up playing AYSO soccer, gymnastics or any type of youth sport growing up. By the time girls hit puberty, many step away due to society’s expectations. If sports are meant to be a healthy and fun way of being a part of a community, why do they not support women?

Growing up, the stigma within female athletics encourages women to quit their sports instead of continuing them. Many may argue women are too weak to be playing sports or that women’s sports are not entertaining enough to have fans that bring in revenue. The list goes on and on.

This stigma impacts women’s health mentally and physically. Women, especially those participating in sports, are also constantly trying to fit the new beauty standard. These standards do not reflect the strong, muscular bodies of athletes, and lead many to develop body dysmorphia or eating disorders.

In recent years, there has been a push to change the way society views women’s sports. Tennis player Naomi Osaka has been a huge advocate for mental health among athletes after she decided not to play in the 2021 French Open to prioritize her mental health.

NCAA women’s basketball has recently skyrocketed in popularity with players like Caitlin Clark, Cameron Brink, Angel Reese and other athletes who are the reason for bringing in views. But it is not only basketball that is being recognized. The start of flag football being offered to girls in high school as well as the establishment of the Pro Volleyball Federation, shows that female sports are more important than many precede.

It has been a long time coming for the achievement of women. Historically, academically and athletically, all of these achievements show that women can and will excel in all aspects of society. Sports do not determine the femininity of a women but has instead become a driving force for female empowerment everywhere.