Representation in Women’s Sports: How We Can All Show Up and Make a Difference

By Shannon Murree

In sports, women still face uphill battles for representation, respect, and fair compensation. Female athletes bring the same dedication, skill, and resilience as their male counterparts but face an inequitable divide in pay, sponsorship, and media coverage. As a real estate professional, community leader, and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, I know the importance of using our collective voice to bridge this gap. Supporting women’s sports isn’t just a gesture—it’s a commitment to inspire change in our communities. Even If You’re Not a Sports Fan, Give It a Chance – Supporting women’s sports is an opportunity to find something new, learn about incredible athletes, and connect with communities we may not normally engage with. You might even find a newfound appreciation or a team to root for!

Why Representation—and Equity—Matters

Representation matters, especially for the next generation. When young girls see women succeeding in sports, they feel empowered to pursue their own dreams, wherever they may lead. While conversations around equality are growing, we must ask: Why isn’t it enough?

One of the most striking inequalities is pay. Despite putting in the same time, effort, and heart, women athletes earn a fraction of what men do. True equity means valuing women’s contributions on the same scale and closing these gaps in pay, sponsorship, and media exposure. Here’s how we can all make a difference.

10 Ways We Can Make a Difference in Women’s Sports

1. Cheer On – Every cheer counts. Let’s bring the energy, whether watching live or online, and create the excitement women’s sports deserve. Show up, tune in, and help fill the stands.
2. Speak Up and Share the Wins – Highlight women’s achievements through social media, workplace chats, or casual conversations. Celebrating these accomplishments builds visibility and strengthens the community around women’s sports.
3. Buy the Merch – Merchandise isn’t just clothing; it’s a statement of support. Wearing women’s team logos makes it clear that we believe in these athletes and the value they bring to sports.
4. Push for Media Coverage – Women’s sports still lag in media exposure. By sharing highlights, starting conversations, and requesting coverage, we can change this dynamic, helping female athletes receive the recognition they deserve.
5. Encourage the Next Generation – As a mother, mentor, and leader, I know how important it is to encourage young girls to pursue their passions. Supporting women’s sports helps pave the way for future generations to feel confident, capable, and seen.
6. Become a Sponsor – Sponsorships provide crucial support to women’s sports. Businesses, leaders, and communities can make a lasting impact by sponsoring athletes, teams, or events, helping ensure women’s sports have the resources needed to thrive.
7. Mind Our Language – Words matter. Avoiding derogatory or dismissive language and choosing supportive, empowering words help shape a culture that respects and values female athletes. Let’s speak with intention, in ways that encourage equality and respect.
8. Be Supportive On and Offline – Real support is consistent. Champion women’s sports by engaging online, celebrating athletes, sharing positive content, and being supportive in real-life conversations. Being an ally isn’t just about words; it’s about showing up in both the digital and physical worlds.
9. Call Out Biases When We See Them – Inequities aren’t always obvious, but when we notice biases, we can play a role in addressing them. Whether it’s unfair commentary, limited airtime, or pay discrepancies, pointing these out is a step toward accountability and change.
10. Normalise Women’s Sports as Essential Viewing – Let’s make watching women’s sports as routine as any other. When we view, share, and celebrate women’s sports as we do men’s, we’re helping them gain the respect they deserve.

Using My Platform to Inspire Change

As a real estate agent, entrepreneur, and advocate, I see my platform as a tool for driving change. My experience as a woman in business has taught me the value of representation across fields and how crucial it is to use my voice. By connecting women to resources, creating opportunities, and advocating for equitable treatment, I aim to lead by example. Advocacy doesn’t have to be a full-time job—it’s about using our everyday platforms, voices, and influence to make change.

The Power of Collective Support

Every ticket, every post, and every conversation brings us closer to closing the gap. Together, we can make women’s sports a fixture on every screen, with equal pay and opportunities for all. Imagine packed stadiums, sold-out merchandise, and media coverage that’s the norm rather than the exception. This vision isn’t far-fetched; it’s within reach, and it starts with each of us.

Let’s Make an Impact

Let’s get people talking, supporting, and showing up for women’s sports. Let's continue this movement. Tag a friend who’s ready to get involved, share this article to spread the word, or comment with your favourite women’s team or player. When we unite, the world has no choice but to listen. Together, we’re building a legacy of representation, resilience, and change. Together, let’s support, cheer, and champion for women’s sports—and show the world that their contributions are invaluable.

#RepresentationMatters #DEI #SupportWomensSports #InspiringChange