Empowering Women in Sports Through Mutual Support and Inspiration: Why Did I Found This Nonprofit?

“Hey, I might not come to training next time.”

My friend said this after we closed our lockers after swim practice. She was the third friend who had left the swim team this year. In 12 years of swimming, I noticed that there were always fewer girls than boys, and many girls left the team after only a few years of training. I constantly had to say goodbye to my teammates, and our friendships became increasingly fragile since I didn’t know when my friends might leave.

I understood why they quit: not only have I struggled with biological challenges such as my period and weight gain, but I have also been plagued by the pressures of competition, and had to deal with gender stereotypes as the coaches paid more attention to the male swimmers since they expected them to perform better.

Even at the professional level, international sports organizations seek to restrict and control female athletes. Some sports have dress codes that prohibit revealing clothing, while others have rules that turn women into sexual objects, only allowing them to wear skirts and dresses during games. Some ban players who have conditions such as androgenesis that are natural but deemed "unfair," such as India’s fastest sprinter, Dutee Chand. Due to naturally high levels of testosterone in her body, she was banned from competing in 2014. Chand refused to lower her testosterone levels below the male range. "I feel that it's wrong to have to change your body for sport participation," she said. "I am not changing myself for anyone.” Such female athletes fought against the patriarchal system and became role models for young women participating in sports.

Their struggle and achievements are exemplary and an inspiration to many others. The support of female athletes is necessary to encourage more girls to engage in sports. According to the Los Angeles Times, major television networks in the United States are shifting their cultural attitudes and putting more spotlight on women's sports and athletes. Motivators that might drive participation include inspiring women with real stories, socializing with friends, and cohesiveness - women supporting each other.

In fact, research has shown that sports engagement among girls is associated with enhanced physical and mental health, academic success, and increased levels of body esteem, confidence, and mastery, with some indication that girls reap more benefits than boys from sports participation.

This reminds me of the swimmers who give up their training. I wonder if they would have lasted longer if they had more support and help. That was the moment I decided to start this website/nonprofit organization to encourage girls in my community to participate in sports they enjoy by sharing inspiring stories of other athletes. I am so grateful to my core members Wendy, Annie, Kaylynn Sofia, and Daniel for your dedication throughout the year! Thank you for supporting my ideas, working with me, and contributing your voices to us and everyone else in this community. Even if we can not guarantee that everyone can hear our voices, at least we are doing something to push for change.

One person may have limited power and resources, but when there are many of us, we can support each other and make a difference.