When you look at the sports world right now, it’s clear that women’s sports are finally starting to get the attention they’ve always deserved. The WNBA has record-breaking viewership, the U.S. women’s soccer team continues to inspire, and even at the high school level, gyms are filling up for girls’ games. But the truth is that this should’ve started years ago, and we as fans need to keep it going.
For too long, women’s sports were treated as “secondary” to men’s, with less media coverage, fewer opportunities, and smaller paychecks. That’s slowly changing, but only because athletes, fans, and communities are demanding better. Caitlin Clark’s college career showed how exciting women’s basketball can be, and now she’s helping bring that energy into the WNBA. Every little girl who sees her on TV or in an arena realizes that basketball can be their dream, too.
And it’s not just basketball. In tennis, Coco Gauff caught attention by winning the U.S. Open at just 19 years old, showing confidence and grace that inspired millions. In track and field, Sha’Carri Richardson has become one of the most talked-about athletes in the world. These women aren’t just performing; they’re redefining what greatness looks like. They show that women’s sports aren’t “less exciting” or “less competitive.” They’re just as equally powerful, emotional, and worth watching.
As students, we can play a part too. Supporting our school’s girls’ teams, posting highlights, and showing up to games matters more than people think. Every filled bleacher and every cheer adds to that change. Sometimes girls’ teams don’t get the same turnout as boys’, but that’s something we can change right here at South Lakes. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, or track, showing up is a simple way to show respect and appreciation for the hard work these athletes put in.
We also need to push for equal recognition. That means giving girls’ sports the same promotion in morning announcements, posters, and social media coverage. When one team wins a championship or breaks a record, it should be celebrated school-wide, not just in passing.
In the end, sports are about competition, passion, and community; things that aren’t defined by gender. If we want equality in sports, it starts with us refusing to treat women’s games as “less than.” The future of sports is bigger, brighter, and more equal when everyone gets the spotlight.
