By age 14, girls are dropping out of sports at twice the rate of boys. The Women’s Sports Foundation identifies multiple factors driving this trend: limited access to programs, safety and transportation challenges, social stigma, declining quality of experience, high costs, and a lack of visible role models.
Yet every elite athlete, every Olympian, every champion began somewhere. With a first practice, a first race, and a first dream. National Women and Girls in Sports Day celebrates the power of sports to transform lives, inspiring girls to believe in themselves and the possibilities before them. It reminds us that the foundation of confidence, leadership, and resilience often starts on the field or the track.
At TrackGirlz, we bring that vision to life. Founded by Olympian and 2024 Olympic Coach Mechelle Lewis Freeman, TrackGirlz provides mentorship and empowerment through track and field programs. Our mission is to equip girls with the tools they need to succeed: physically, academically, and socially.
Track and field is the most popular sport for middle and high school girls in the U.S., and it is one of the most diverse and inclusive. It welcomes athletes of all ethnicities, body types, and abilities. Participation in track and field not only helps girls develop strength, determination, and leadership, it also leads to higher academic achievement and improved health and self-esteem.
Despite its benefits, too many girls face barriers to participation. Youth from underserved families, girls, racial and ethnic minorities, and children with physical or developmental disabilities are among those with the lowest rates of sports participation. TrackGirlz works to break down those barriers, providing safe, fun, and accessible programs so every girl has the chance to stay in the game and dream big.
This National Women and Girls in Sports Day, we celebrate the girls who show up, take their mark, and push themselves forward. We celebrate the mentors, coaches, and communities that help them rise. And we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every girl – no matter her background – has the chance to experience the life-changing power of sports.
Because every Olympian started as a girl with a dream. And every girl deserves that opportunity.
Learn more about our story here and how you can be involved. We will also be partnering with Scottish Rite for Children to present the FAST Speed & Power Clinic on February 16th, led by our founder, U.S. Olympian & Olympic Relays Coach Mechelle Lewis Freeman. This will allow girls to train faster, move better and learn what it takes to elevate their performance!
Leave a Reply