RANGER REPORT by DACODA MCDOWELL-WAHPEKECHE
In the early history of sports, women were called unathletic and disrespected, daily. To this day, women are still disrespected and do not get as much credit as they deserve.
I am a huge fan of basketball so I know more about the athletes in women’s basketball than any other sports.
Women in sports do not deserve the disrespect they receive from people who do not believe in their athletic abilities.
Brittney Griner is the starting center for the Phoenix Mercury, a team within the Women’s National Basketball Association. She stands at 6-foot-9-inches, making her one of the tallest women in the league.
Many people mock Griner and her physical appearance. I think she is amazing on the court and does not deserve the hate she receives.
Griner has been a leader off the court in the LGBTQ+ community since she revealed herself as a lesbian during her time playing for the basketball team at Baylor University.
Another woman who is a leader in the LGBTQ+ community is Megan Rapinoe, a player within the Women’s National Soccer League and the United States National Team. She not only performs well in soccer but also is an activist for many issues outside of soccer.
Rapinoe stands for issues like women requesting equal pay for their athletic abilities. She also endorses organizations that support the LGBTQ+ communities.
Politics aside, we cannot disrespect her will and strength to be able to stand for what she believes.
Jill Lancaster is another female athlete who has helped pushed the barrier holding women back in sports. She is Northwestern’s head track and field coach.
Before the NCAA included women in sports, women competed in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women.
The Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women served as the association for women to compete at a high level athletically. Lancaster competed in it and was a part of the making of history for women.
Without the AIAW proving that women could compete at a high level then women would have never competed in the NCAA.
Today, we move in a positive direction for women in sports. The Oklahoma Secondary Schools Athletic Association hosted its first state tournament for women’s wrestling.
Women in sports are some of the most kind-hearted and hardworking people on this planet. They fight for what they believe in and work hard in what they athletically participate in.
During the month of March, celebrate the female athletes and coaches.
Just celebrate women and their dedication to ensuring a better future.
