Girls and Women in Sports

Since its inception in 1912, Girl Scouting has always promoted a healthy active lifestyle. It is only natural that many Girl Scouts are also gifted athletes. On February 4, 2009 and throughout the month, thousands of sports educators, coaches, athletic directors, recreation directors, association members, sponsors, students and parents across the country showed their support of the National Girls and Women in Sports Day and of this year's theme, "Look Who's Playing!" NGWSD is co-sponsored by Girl Scouts of the USA and several other women's organizations. Here are examples of some terrific Girl Scouts who are also athletes. Each week, we will add new profiles.

Maura, Age 10

Level in Scouting? Second year Girl Scout Junior

What sports do you play? My favorite sports are fast pitch softball, soccer and skiing.

For how long? I have been playing fast pitch softball since I was 5 years old. I started playing soccer when I was 6 years old, and I have been skiing since I was 3.

What is your favorite thing about Girl Scouting? My favorite thing about Girl Scouts is the fun I have with my friends working on badges. I also really like the camping and the hiking.

Why do you like sports? I like fast pitch softball because I like striking girls out, getting hits and making big plays. I like soccer because I love scoring goals. My favorite thing about skiing is going as fast as I can.

What have you learned from Girl Scouting? From Girl Scouting I learned that it takes hard work to get things done and that it's a lot of fun to do projects as a team.

What have you learned from sports you play? From sports I have learned that it takes a lot of practice to be a good player. I also learned that you need to work together as a team to achieve your goals.

Cassandra, Age 11

Level in Girl Scouting? Girl Scout Junior

What sports do you play? Basketball, swimming, soccer and volleyball.

For how long? Basketball eight years, swimming since I was 3, soccer since I was 4 and volleyball for one year.

What is your favorite thing about Girl Scouting? Hanging with my friends.

Why do you like your sport? I love swimming because I can compete against myself to improve my own times. I also like hanging out with my friends at the long swim meets.

What have you learned from Girl Scouting? How to have fun by learning new things.

What have you learned from the sports you play? How to have goals and not be afraid to go for what you want.