In the realm of sports, women have long been fighting for the recognition and respect they rightfully deserve. While progress has been made, the journey towards equality is far from over.
We had three Transition Year students join us at Her Sport, and were able to gain insight into their vision for women in sports in 10 years from now. Their responses shed light on the aspirations of the younger generation and underscore the urgency of creating a more inclusive sporting landscape.
"In 10 years I would like women’s sport to be a fair and equal space in which women encourage each other and are not afraid to thrive and be successful in their respective sports," remarked one student. This sentiment echoes the importance of fostering a culture of empowerment and camaraderie among women in sports, transcending competition to embrace solidarity.
Another student emphasized the need for greater recognition of female athletes' accomplishments: "I would like more female athletes celebrated for their achievements like the men are and not being swept under the radar." Such recognition is essential not only for the athletes' morale but also for inspiring future generations of female athletes.
Moreover, there is a pressing need to challenge prevailing biases and stereotypes that undermine women's achievements in sports. One student highlighted the importance of acknowledging women's talent and skill without attributing their success to gender-based assumptions.
"To look at a woman’s achievements and say ‘what a talented woman’ not ‘she only got that far because the competition is easier than the men’s’. For women to be talented footballers and basketball players and rugby players whatever but be treated equally to the men who are doing the same job as them but aren't being paid equally them but aren't being paid equally."
This call for equal treatment extends beyond accolades to encompass equitable pay and opportunities in sports—a vital step towards dismantling systemic gender disparities.
The transformative power of sports in fostering bonds and building confidence was also underscored by the students. Sharing personal anecdotes, they emphasized the profound sense of community and empowerment that sports provide:
"Rugby is a game of confidence and trust and feeling like I had all my friends standing right beside me on the pitch made me a better player as I would do anything to protect them and vice versa. My teammates became people I could confide in whether it be for advice or just someone to talk to."
"During our current season we started off as a bunch as strangers on a team together but now you wouldn’t be able to find a closer group girls.
Now everytime i walk onto the pitch I am reminded I am no longer that timid girl I used to be. So if someone were to ask me “What do you love about playing sports?” I’d tell them it feels like home with all my family there."
As we look towards the future, it is evident that the aspirations of these young individuals reflect a collective desire for a more inclusive and equitable sporting landscape. By amplifying the voices and experiences of female athletes, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a culture of support and recognition, we can pave the way for a future where women in sports are celebrated, respected, and given the platform they deserve.
