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Learn more about the history of National Girls and Women in Sport Day at the local and national level, and find ways to support girls and women in sport right here in Minnesota.
National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) is celebrated in all 50 states with community-based events, award ceremonies, and activities to honor the achievements and encourage participation of girls and women in sports. The day was chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1986 to honor female athletic achievement and recognize the importance of sports and fitness participation for all girls and women. 

The first national celebration was in held 1987 where Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman was honored posthumously for her athletic achievements and her work to assure equity for women’s sports. Hyman tragically died of Marfan's Syndrome in 1986 while competing in a volleyball tournament in Japan. Since that time, NGWSD has evolved into a day to acknowledge the past while recognizing current sports achievements, the positive influence of sports participation, and the continuing struggle for equality and access for women in sports. 

The Minnesota event is run by the Minnesota Coalition for Women in Athletic Leadership (MCWAL). This group is entirely made up of volunteers who support the mission and vision of NGWSD and Women's Sports Foundation. 

If you have questions about our event or are interested in becoming involved, please contact our event co-directors listed below. 

History of the event

MCWAL Co-Directors

Carol Howe-Veenstra
Carol.hv70@gmail.com

Lisa Quednow
lquednow@MSHSL.org
From 1995-2015 the National Girls & Women in Sport Day - Minnesota celebration was held annually in the Minnesota State Capitol rotunda. 
Read stories about local girls and women who have been successful in their fight for equity and more opportunities  in sport. Find links to past NGWSD-MN events, as well as local and inspirational stories featuring local and national girls and women.
Learn more about ways to support the MCWAL and girls and women in sport both locally and at the national level, including links to the Minnesota NGWSD social media channels and local nonprofits who share the same vision.
The MCWAL is made up entirely of volunteers from a variety of sports-related professions around the state who share a vision of equity and opportunities for girls and women in sports.