SITS girls youth players participating in the NGWSD event
As you entered the room filled with young female athletes at Agape Youth & Family Center, one can sense the excitement of the crowd anxious to hear inspiring stories told by empowering female role models. This day was a special day for the Soccer in the Streets community as twenty young girls were on hand for the 34th annual National Girls in Women’s Sports Day. This day is held annually to highlight the equal opportunity and the importance of Title IX.
Many of these young female athletes are unaware of the issues that other females have faced growing up. The panel was an array of female activists. From the Atlanta United program, Latin American Association Board, Laureus Sport for Good, and the International Business Exchange
The confidence, strength, and character gained through sports participation are the very tools girls and women need to become strong leaders in sports and life. Leigh Jakes, a former pro soccer player for the Chicago Red Stars, has overcome many obstacles in her life.
Female panelists expressing the importance of female empowerment in sport
“I have to overcome many injuries and setbacks that caused me to doubt myself,” said Jakes. “I had to remember I couldn’t show other people my worth until I believed in myself first. And now I take that confidence with me when I train coaches to coach our youth recreation programs.”
“It’s so important for girls to know their power, to find their voice, to know that they have the right to take up space in this world. Sports tap into that strength, so girls get involved in any way that you can!”
Throughout the day, it was powerful to sit and watch this younger generation of girls bubble with excitement as they heard words of encouragement and empowerment. Hands were raised asking questions about deeper stories and not only about sport, but her life in general.
A mentor for the Latina females and board member of the Latin American Association, Karla Arriola, spoke on her time workforce and life experiences.
“I always had trouble with being confident with speaking English, and being a confident Latina woman,” said Arriola. “After realizing that this is just who I am and being the only Latina in a room, I have become a role model for others. At the National Girls and Women in Sports Day event, I felt empowered to speak about my past experiences to help guide these young women.”
This annual event highlights women leaders around the world influencing young athletes to be motivated and empowered in their sport’s industry. Soccer in the Streets supports all the women leaders who shine a light on gender equality.