On February 7, 2024, we celebrate the 38th of National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). National Girls and Women in Sports Day serves as a source of inspiration for girls and women, encouraging them to engage in sports and physical activity, recognizing and unlocking their inherent strength. The confidence, resilience, and character cultivated through sports participation are essential tools that empower girls and women to emerge as formidable leaders in both the realm of sports and life. 

Today, I wanted to share my story about the impact sports had on me and the confidence it gave me. I was always an active kid, involved in lots of sports. Growing up, I always felt the most comfortable and “myself” when playing sports. Looking back,I remember being on a mixed soccer team in junior high school, where there were only 3 girls out of 10~12 boys. I remember thinking, “Why aren’t girls more interested in sports?” Even today, we  see a clear gender gap when it comes to women in sports, especially at professional levels. An average salary of a WNBA player is 110 times less than that of a male NBA colleague. In terms of visibility, media coverage of women's sports lags significantly behind men's in all monitored countries, at times up to 20 times less. National Girls and Women in Sports Day serves as a reminder to recognize the resilience, skill, and dedication of women in sports, promoting inclusivity, equal opportunities, and fostering a supportive environment where every girl and woman can thrive athletically and personally.

In highschool I played soccer, rugby, track and field and badminton. Since I am an introvert, sports was the easiest way for me to meet people. It is incredible how fast you bond with your teammates when you play a sport together. “The shared goals, victories, and even setbacks cultivates a support system that extends beyond the sports arena. Sports always gave me this sense of belonging and community to me, helping me feel more confident.” These sporting experiences not only helped me overcome my introverted tendencies but as a catalyst for self-discovery and empowerment. 

As I entered college, the time constraints made it difficult for me to fully engage in competitive sports. However, my desire to stay connected with sports persisted, prompting me to seek out more casual and enjoyable alternatives. This led me to discover the  drop-in sports at Humber College, with different sports available each day of the week. I remember being anxious and nervous to go to my first drop-in badminton because I did not know what to expect. What if everyone there was unwelcoming? However, my concerns quickly disappeared once I started to play. It is something that I look forward to every week, a place where I made lots of friends who I grew very close to. Reflecting on my journey, sports provided not only a sense of belonging and community but also aided in overcoming introverted tendencies. My commitment to sports persisted through casual engagement in drop-in sports. These sessions not only alleviated anxieties but also fostered friendships, adding a sense of joy to my weekly routine.

In celebration of the 38th National Girls & Women in Sports Day, we recognize its role in inspiring girls and women to unlock their strength through sports. Despite gender disparities in professional sports, this day serves as a reminder to acknowledge the resilience of female athletes, advocating for inclusivity and equal opportunities. It is an annual tribute to the transformative power of sports, promoting confidence, personal growth, and community building. It inspires a continued commitment to breaking gender barriers and ensuring inclusivity in the athletic realm.