Snowe, Murray, Mikulski and Bingaman Announce Resolution to Recognize Women in Athletics

WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senators Olympia J. Snowe (R-Maine), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) and Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.) today introduced a bipartisan resolution to recognize the 24th anniversary of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, which honors and recognizes the past and current achievements of females in athletics as well as the positive influences of sports participation and the continuing struggle for equality and access for women in sports.

“It is clear that while we celebrate the tremendous progress women’s sports have made since the commencement of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, we cannot sit on the sidelines,” said Senator Snowe.  “As reflected in this year’s theme, ‘Stay Strong, Play On,’ we must build upon the outstanding success in sports participation by girls and women across the state of Maine and our country. Their participation and leadership in athletics has certainly not gone unnoticed.

“Women and girls across the country have benefited tremendously from the remarkable progress we have made in encouraging sports participation over the past twenty-four years,” said Senator Murray. “As we recognize and honor the many achievements of women athletes, we must continue working to ensure that every young girl who dreams of making the team, wearing a sports jersey, or winning a college championship has the opportunity to succeed.”

“I’m so proud of our women athletes – tough, tenacious, breaking barriers and breaking records. Today, I’m proud to reflect on the progress we’ve made since the commencement of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, and the feats yet to come,” said Senator Barbara A. Mikulski.

“Athletics foster higher self-esteem, leadership skills and good health in America’s girls and women.  For these reasons, I’m pleased to join in supporting National Girls and Women in Sports Day,” Senator Bingaman said.

The celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day began in remembrance of Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman for her athletic achievements and her commitment to ensuring equality for women’s sports.  Tragically, Hyman died of Marfan’s Syndrome in 1986 while competing in a volleyball tournament.  In that same year, Senator Snowe introduced a joint resolution commemorating the first National Women in Sports Day in 1987.  February 3, 2010 marked the 24th anniversary of this annual celebration which acknowledges and appreciates women in athletics.