Over the years it has been noted that there’s a definite discrepancy in the traditional media coverage of men’s and women’s NCAA basketball. However, as a Connecticut native and a UConn fan, lack of recognition for women’s basketball is a foreign concept to me.
Recognizing women’s athletics is important because it gives girls role models outside of the typical gender roles in society. Growing up, I remember how exciting it was to watch the Lady Huskies dominate on the court. And as my mom always reminded me, the players were both athletes AND scholars. Supporting women’s athletics, especially at the college level, sends the message to young girls that you can be strong and smart. Numerous Grantee Partners at The Women’s Foundation, such as Prince George’s Tennis and Education Foundation (PGTEF), understand the importance of this concept and use it to uplift girls in our greater Washington community.
PGTEF develops athletic, academic and life skills through programs that foster self-esteem and academic achievement. Participants become good athletes; and they also become outstanding students and citizens.
As UConn basketball coach Geno Auriemma tries to chastise unrepentant journalists into leveling the playing field when it comes to coverage of men’s and women’s sports, he and the Huskies can be assured that they have plenty of fans watching them as they move into the Elite Eight. As UConn continues their legacy as a power house team in the NCAA Division 1 Finals, I just want to congratulate the Huskies on their win over Georgetown yesterday and wish them luck against Duke tomorrow!
Photo credits: UConn photo from UConnHuskies.com. Tennis photo courtesy of Brenda Gilmore.
Lena Peterson is the Development Associate at Washington Area Women’s Foundation.
