By Okon Ekpenyong

Today marks National Girls & Women in Sports Day, a day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the incredible achievements of female athletes. From local teams in Columbus to international competitions, women continue to break barriers and inspire others through their strength, fortitude, and determination.

The Greater Columbus Sports Commission highlights the city’s long-standing history of supporting women in sports. As early as 1897, high school girls were playing organized basketball in Columbus. Fast forward to the present day. Columbus is home to the Columbus Fury, a founding team in the Pro Volleyball Federation, and numerous women’s professional, semi-professional, and amateur teams. Ohio State Women’s Athletics also champions women’s sports, providing opportunities for female athletes to compete at the highest level.

In recent years, Columbus has become a hub for hosting NCAA women’s championships. Since 2016, the city has hosted ten championships across all three divisions and national collegiate competitions. Two additional championships were scheduled for 2020, but unfortunately, they were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these setbacks, the support and recognition for women’s sports in Columbus continus to grow.

On this day and every day, it is important to acknowledge and celebrate the impact that women have in the world of sports. Their determination and resilience serve as a reminder that anything is possible when we work together and support one another. So, let us all stand up and continue empowering female athletes in Columbus and worldwide.

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