Girls and Women in Sports Day

Girls and Women in Sports Day is an annual international celebration dedicated to all female athletes. It is observed on the first Wednesday in February each year.

History

The history of Girls and Women in Sports Day began in 1987. The holiday was established in honor of American athlete Flo Hyman, an Olympic volleyball player who dedicated her life to promoting women’s participation in sports. Flo Hyman passed away during a tournament in Japan due to Marfan syndrome. She worked tirelessly to break stereotypes and champion equal opportunities for women in athletics.

In the United States, women were granted the same rights as men in sports only in 1972, when Title IX was added to the Civil Rights Act. This legislation required gender equality in all educational programs, including sports. Since then, girls and women have been able to participate in athletic competitions on equal footing with boys and men.

Interesting Facts

• Women were first allowed to compete in the Olympic Games in 1900.
• Rhythmic gymnastics is one of the most popular sports among women. Many girls are also drawn to cheerleading.
• In Ancient Greece, women were not only banned from participating in sports competitions, but were even forbidden from attending as spectators.

How to Take Part

Congratulate girls and women you know who are involved in sports. Learn more about female athletes from your country or city, and watch women’s sporting events.

Create a congratulatory post on social media and encourage others to share how often they watch women’s sports.

When Is Girls and Women in Sports Day in 2026?

Girls and Women in Sports Day is observed on the first Wednesday in February every year.

Observations