National Girls and Women in Sports Day

Northwestern Hosts National Girls and Women In Sports Day Virtually

1/29/2021 4:10:00 PM | 'Cats Give Back

The 'Cats Give Back program seeks to enhance the overall educational experience of student-athletes by connecting Wildcats to service-oriented and philanthropic activities in the Evanston and Chicago communities. The program is supported by Northwestern Medicine and their commitment to creating better communities, now and into the future.

This year marks the 35th annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day, which is a celebration that seeks to build education around the advancement of women in sports. To recognize the achievements of female athletes and encourage girls and women to get involved in sports, the Northwestern University Department of Athletics and Recreation hosted National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) on Sunday, January 24.

The virtual event served as a special pregame leading up to the Wildcats' women's basketball game against Indiana. Student-athlete leaders from field hockey, softball, women's swimming and diving and volleyball designed activities and led discussions around the importance of building a winning plate, taking time for personal reflection and setting SMART goals. The student-athlete led stations concluded with relaxing stretches and yoga exercises.

Senior volleyball student-athlete Nia Robinson has been a part of National Girls and Women in Sports Day since her first-year. When reflecting on the experience, Robinson commented, "Even though the event was virtual, we were still able to share our stories, memories and experiences as women in sports. I wish I could have attended an event like this one when I was younger and I am so thankful to have been a mentor to these young girls."

"I was honored to be able to share what we learn here at Northwestern," said Sophie Angus, a senior on the women's swimming and diving team. Angus goes on to say, "They seemed super excited to learn about our paths to getting to where we are now, and that joy and energy reminded me of why I love being a student-athlete."

Following the educational portion of the event, participants received a behind-the-scenes tour of Welsh-Ryan Arena, which included interviews with two staff members who play an integral role in the success of the women's basketball program.

Women's Basketball Assistant Coach, Kate Popovec, shared two pieces of advice that she learned from her time competing as a Wildcat and during her tenure as a coach, which are twofold: be a great teammate and believe in who you are. Participants also met Assistant Director of Event Management & Championships, Jordan Hebert, who shared insight into her role on game-day and the importance of self-confidence.

After the live interviews, participants then received a live look at the team's pre-game routine and had the opportunity to watch the starting lineups and 2021 introduction video.

Northwestern Athletics is proud to celebrate past, current and future achievements of women in sports.






 
'Cats Give Back - Family Focus of Evanston Food Drive (12/6/19)
Friday, December 06
Swimming & Diving - Breast Stroke for Breast Cancer
Wednesday, December 04
Northwestern Community Service Day 2017
Tuesday, June 13
'Cats Give Back - Softball Volunteers with Toys for Tots
Wednesday, November 30