Local coaches celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – In 1987, President Ronald Regan established an annual day of observance during the first week of February to acknowledge female athletes. 

The day also pays homage to the late Flo Hyman, a volleyball player who worked hard for fairness in women’s sports. 

“It is a celebration of women in sports. It is recognizing girls and women who are playing sports and who have played sports,” said Janna Eichelberger, GPS Head Varsity Basketball Coach and Assistant Director of Athletics.

“It also just gives a spotlight on the fact that we have girls who can play and be dominant.” 

The day showcases the positive influence of sports participation for women, girls and society. It also shows the progress made since Title IX was passed. 

“Now as you can see what the NCAA is doing in the college realm and professional sports, we now have opportunities. So, it’s a gratitude thing,” said Eichelberger. 

Wednesday marks National Girls and Women in Sports Day around the world and here in Hamilton County. Thousands of women are honored for their grit and equality. 

To celebrate the 38th National Girls and Women in Sports Day, Academy Sports and Outdoors awarded the Chattanooga Football Club Women $6,000. 

“This will benefit because it will help CFC and it will help academy sports to empower girls and empower women that are doing something good out there,” said Juan Hernandez, Chattanooga Football Club Women’s Coach. 

The good they do continues through school-age sports and beyond. 

“Those who genuinely love playing sports, you can continue to play after little league after middle school, after high school and after college. The opportunities just overflow,” Eichelberger concluded.