More Than Just a Game: Why Supporting Women’s Sports is a Game-Changer

Yesterday, we traded our usual after-school routine for something more exciting - a trip to the Olympic qualifier game between Canada's women's national soccer team and the Jamaican women's soccer team.

The atmosphere was electric as we joined a sold-out crowd of 29,212 fans, setting a new record for a men’s or women’s national team game in Ontario. The roar of the crowd, the camaraderie, and the sheer talent displayed on the field were nothing short of exhilarating. It was more than just a game; it was a celebration of hard work, determination, and the strides women have made in the sports arena.

The experience got me thinking about the importance of supporting women’s sports, not just in words but in action. Here’s why:

1. Walking the Talk on Equity:

When it comes to equity in sports, we need to do more than just engage in conversations around the dinner table. Supporting female athletes by purchasing tickets to their games is a tangible way to level the playing field. It’s about putting our money where our mouth is, showing that we value the athletic prowess of women as much as we do men’s.

2. Inspiring the Next Generation:

As I looked around the stadium, I saw young girls and boys, eyes wide with admiration for the athletes on the field. This game was more than just a competition; it was a showcase of what’s possible with hard work and determination. By supporting women’s sports, we expose new generations of athletes to a world of possibilities. It’s about shattering glass ceilings and showing our children that the sky's the limit.

3. Building Community:

There’s something magical about the collective cheer of a crowd when a goal is scored. Sports have a unique way of bringing people together, creating a sense of community and belonging. By supporting women’s sports, we foster inclusivity and celebrate diversity, enriching our communities in the process.

4. Celebrating Role Models:

The athletes on the field were more than just players; they were role models for every child in the stands. They exemplified what it means to pursue one’s passion relentlessly, to work as a team, and to handle both victory and defeat with grace. By supporting women’s sports, we elevate these role models, inspiring countless young hearts in the process.

As we drove back home, the stadium lights fading in the rearview mirror, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of hope. The world of sports is changing, and for the better. And as a mom, I am thrilled at the thought of a more inclusive, equitable sporting world awaiting my boys. So, the next time there’s a women’s game in town, you know where to find us - cheering from the stands, celebrating every goal, and supporting the incredible women who make it all possible.