National Girls And Women In Sports Day

Celebrated on 02/04/2026

Quick Fact

National Girls and Women in Sports Day was first celebrated in 1987 to honor female athletes and promote gender equality in sports. The day commemorates the achievements of pioneers like Flo Hyman, a volleyball star who advocated for women's sports. It is now observed annually on the first Wednesday of February.

Origins and Establishment of National Girls And Women In Sports Day

National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) was established in 1987 by the Women's Sports Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Billie Jean King in 1974. The day was created to recognize the contributions of female athletes and to promote gender equity in sports, particularly after Title IX's passage in 1972 had begun to increase opportunities for girls and women. The first celebration honored Flo Hyman, an Olympic volleyball player who died suddenly in 1986. Hyman had been a strong advocate for women's sports and equality, making her the perfect symbol for the day.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, NGWSD has grown from a single-day event to a week-long celebration in many communities. It is now observed on the first Wednesday of February each year, with activities ranging from school assemblies and sports clinics to award ceremonies and community events. The day is supported by major organizations including the Women's Sports Foundation, the National Association for Girls and Women in Sport (NAGWS), and the Alliance for Women in Sports (AWS). In recent years, the celebration has expanded to include a focus on intersectionality, highlighting the experiences of women of color, LGBTQ+ athletes, and women with disabilities. Social media campaigns like #NGWSD help amplify the message and engage a broader audience.

Facts & General Observations

• Today, girls' participation in high school sports has increased by over 1,000% since Title IX was enacted in 1972, while women's college sports participation has grown by more than 600%.
• Despite these gains, female athletes still receive only about 4% of all sports media coverage, and women's sports receive less than 1% of total commercial investment.
• The Women's Sports Foundation reports that girls who play sports have higher self-esteem, lower rates of depression, and are more likely to graduate from college than their non-athlete peers.

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