About
2022 marks the 36th Annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). NGWSD recognizes the ongoing effort towards equality and access for women in sports and the nation’s commitment to expand sport and participation opportunities for all girls and future generations.
Throughout the next year, Duke Athletics is hosting a yearlong celebration of 50 Years of Women's Varsity Athletics at Duke. We will once again celebrate our 3rd-annual NGWSD as part of this celebration to join the effort toward equal access and opportunity for women and girls in sports. Your support will help fund scholarships for female student-athletes at Duke.
NGWSD recognizes student-athletes, champion athletes, coaches, administrators and lawmakers who are committed to providing equitable access to sports for all girls and women.
"I am most appreciative of the opportunity to play for Duke. I get butterflies every time I get to put on my jersey to play. Even outside of volleyball, I am just so thankful to be at this University. Every time I walk past the Chapel, I am reminded of how lucky I am. I will always be grateful for this amazing experience.
My favorite part of being a Duke student-athlete is the connection I have made with my teammates and the other student-athletes at Duke. I have met some of my very best friends here, and have been given so many new experiences and opportunities by being a Duke student-athlete."
– Kincey Smith, Duke Volleyball
Our Mission
For more than three decades, NGWSD has empowered women and girls to get moving, embrace physical activity and push past their limits. The courage, confidence and character gained through sports participation are the very tools girls need to become the strong leaders of tomorrow.
History
National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) began in 1987 as a special day in our nation’s capital to recognize women’s sports. The day united premiere organizations and elite female athletes to bring national attention to the promise of girls and women in sports.
In 1987, NGWSD also served as a remembrance of Olympic volleyball player, Flo Hyman, for her athletic achievements and dedication to promoting equality for women’s sports; Hyman died of Marfan’s Syndrome in 1986. NGWSD has since evolved into an event to acknowledge the accomplishments of female athletes, the positive influence of sports participation and the continuing struggle for equality for women in sports.
NGWSD is celebrated annually across all 50 states with community-based events, award ceremonies and other celebratory activities. NGWSD is organized by the members of the National Girls & Women in Sports Day Coalition. Champion women athletes have also contributed to annual NGWSD activities.
