Why Women's Sports Matter to ALL of Us by Eric Carlyle, SDLT

When I started Compete Sports Diversity in 2006, our business was named Sports Out Loud and our tagline was “The Best Gay Sports Magazine in the World.” As our vision evolved into “Uniting the World Through Sports,” our focus turned from specifically LGBTQ+ athlete representation to celebrating sports for everyone. But honestly, women’s sports were hard to include in those days. Aside from some stories on the fledgling WNBA, there wasn’t much information disseminated – it seemed to be in a silo of its own.

I decided to change our name to “Compete Sports Diversity” after meeting tennis legend Billie Jean King. We had a conversation that really impacted me. Having just finished her book, “Pressure is a Privilege,” she told me that her biggest competitor was herself. After meeting her, I realized that EVERY athlete has that self-competitor that needs to be represented and supported.

I decided to expand our focus beyond LGBTQ+ community to include allied athletes, adaptive athletes, BIOOC athletes, women athletes, socioeconomic athletes and athletes from all underserved communities. I next decided to add community leaders, sports organizations, non-profit groups, corporate and tourism partners so my original limited idea of community could come full circle through our meetings, seminars, education programs and events.

Now, as Women's History Month comes to an end, it's particularly poignant for me to reflect on why women's sports are essential, not just to women but to society as a whole. While it’s beginning to gain interest among sports fans who once would never bother to watch women play, it still lags far behind interest in men’s sports. As someone who identifies as a CIS gender man, here are ten reasons why I believe women's sports hold such importance for everyone.

1. Equality and Representation: Women's sports play a pivotal role in promoting gender equality and representation. By showcasing the talents and skills of women athletes, we challenge stereotypes and break down barriers that have historically limited opportunities for women in sports at all levels.
2. Inspirational Role Models: Women athletes serve as inspirational figures and role models for people of all ages and genders. Their dedication, perseverance and achievements inspire young girls to dream big and to pursue their passions, both on and off the field.
3. Community and Unity: Women's sports foster a sense of community and unity among fans, athletes and supporters. It brings people together, transcending their differences and creating a shared experience that celebrates athleticism and sportsmanship.
4. Skill and Entertainment: Women athletes showcase incredible skill, athleticism and competitiveness, delivering high-quality and entertaining performances across various sports. Their talent and passion for the game make women's sports not only an enjoyable experience but a thrilling one for fans worldwide. Women athletes are showing that they’ve got game!
5. Breaking Stereotypes: Women's sports challenge outdated stereotypes about gender roles and capabilities. They demonstrate that women can excel in any sport and compete at the highest levels, debunking long held myths and paving the way for future generations of athletes.
6. Empowerment and Confidence: Participation in sports empowers women; it instills confidence, leadership and resilience. It teaches valuable life lessons such as teamwork, discipline and goal-setting, and shapes individuals into strong and confident leaders both on and off the field.
7. Economic and Social Impact: Women's sports contribute significantly to the economy and social fabric of communities. They create opportunities for employment, sponsorships and investments while promoting inclusivity and diversity in sports culture.
8. Health and Well-being: Engaging in sports and physical activity has numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, mental well-being and overall fitness. By promoting women's sports, we encourage healthier lifestyles and positive habits among individuals of all ages.
9. Representation in Media and Coverage: Supporting women's sports means advocating for increased media coverage, visibility and recognition. It's essential to amplify the voices and stories of women athletes, ensuring they receive the same level of attention and respect as their male counterparts.
10. Building a Better Future: Embracing women's sports is not just about the present; it's about building a better future where equality, diversity and inclusion are the norm. By championing women athletes and their accomplishments, we contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society for generations to come.

So as we celebrate Women's History Month, let's remember that women's sports embody the values of equality, inspiration, community, empowerment and progress. By supporting and celebrating women athletes, we contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and equitable sports landscape that benefits us all, both now and in the future.