Audrey Richardson
Staff Writer
This past Saturday, Feb. 1, The College of Wooster celebrated National Girls & Women in Sports Day ahead of its official date on Feb. 5. The event, held before the women’s basketball game, brought together young athletes, local families and Wooster women’s sports teams for a day of inspiration, fun and community engagement.
National Girls & Women in Sports Day, observed annually on the first Wednesday of February, is a nationwide celebration that recognizes the achievements of girls and women in athletics while promoting gender equality and opportunities in sports. The day serves as a reminder that young girls should be encouraged to pursue their athletic dreams and know that anything is possible, regardless of gender.
To celebrate this day, Wooster’s female sports teams hosted a sports carnival, transforming the gym into a lively space where children could cycle through different stations and try out a variety of athletic activities. Young participants had the opportunity to engage with college athletes, learn new skills and experience the joy of sports firsthand. Parents and attendees praised the event for its welcoming and inspiring atmosphere, emphasizing how it encouraged young girls to see themselves as future athletes.
“This [was] a great event for my daughter so she [could] see all the opportunities there are for women in different sports,” said Natalie Skelly, a parent of one of the young participants. Student-athletes from various teams took pride in sharing their passion for their respective sports, hoping to inspire the next generation.
“It was a great event for the kids, but also for the athletes involved,” said Sidney O’Rourke ’26, a member of the women’s lacrosse team. “Hopefully, young kids got to see the power of sports — especially for women — and how they can provide a sense of empowerment and a supportive community.”
Allie Toombs ’27, a member of the field hockey team, reflected on the meaningful connections formed during the event. “I really enjoyed the event. It was nice to connect with local kids and share my love for my sport with others,” Toombs said. “Seeing their excitement and curiosity reminded me of why I started playing in the first place. It’s rewarding to know that we might have sparked an interest in sports for some of them.”
Before the start of the women’s basketball game, a fifth grade girls’ basketball team from Danville, Ohio was introduced alongside Wooster’s starting lineup. The moment was a special recognition for the young athletes, reinforcing the message of the day: young girls belong in sports.
For many young attendees, the opportunity to interact with college athletes was an unforgettable experience. Events like these not only introduce children to different sports but also show them firsthand the camaraderie, dedication and passion that come with being an athlete. The day emphasized the importance of representation, allowing young girls to see strong female role models in sports.
As Wooster continues to promote inclusivity and opportunities in athletics, National Girls & Women in Sports Day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made and the work still to be done. By fostering enthusiasm and inspiration, the event helped plant the seeds for a future where more young girls feel empowered to chase their athletic dreams.
The celebration at Wooster was more than just a one-day event — it was a step toward building a stronger, more inclusive sports community for the next generation.