Sports educators, coaches, teachers, students, athletes and other women's sports advocates supported female sports participation by celebrating NGWSD.
On February 9, 2005, the phrase “More Than A Game” came to life as 19th Annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day was celebrated across the United States. Communities across the nation held events to get girls active, teach them how to advance in a sport they love or open the doors to opportunities in a new sport – but most importantly, the day was about fun!
The Women's Sports Foundation representation was in full effect on Capitol Hill lobbying for Title IX and discussing the health issues surrounding young girls today due to lack of physical activity. Chief Executive Officer Donna Lopiano, President Dominique Dawes and a team of other Women's Sports Foundation staff and supporters, were all invited to meet with members of Congress and staffers, including Senator Hillary Clinton. Joining the Foundation representatives were NGWSD Coalition partners: American Association of University Women, Girls, Inc., Girl Scouts, National Association for Girls & Women in Sport, National Women's Law Center and YWCA.
Combating obesity and health issues through increased physical activity and sports opportunities for girls and women was the chosen theme for this year's National Girls and Women in Sports Day. The coalition chose to educate Congress members and staff on the IMPACT Act, which will establish grants to provide health services for improved nutrition, increased physical activity, obesity prevention and similar health problems that result from lack of physical activity; and the High School Data Collection Bill created to amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct certain coeducational elementary and secondary schools to make available information on equality in school athletic programs, and for other purposes.
To add even more excitement to the event, targeted members were asked to wear pedometers (donated by Walk 4Life) and participate in our walk-a-thon. There was no prize for first place; however we rewarded all participants with a fitness band and the pride of a healthy way of life. All pedometers used in the walk-a-thon were collected and are in the process of being donated to a girl-serving organization.