Over the years, female participation in sports has risen dramatically, reflecting the changes in modern society. This was best reflected at the 2012 London Olympics, where women made up 44.3% of all competitors – representing the greatest percentage of female participation at the competition in history.
Many males have dominated the publicity of sports, particularly Roger Federer in tennis, Sachin Tendulkar in cricket and even David Beckham in football, with the belief that only males can be successful in sport and get the best brand endorsements. However, this is purely a misconception on our society’s behalf, which tends to forget the success that women have had in sports.
There are many strong female role models in sport. Serena and Venus Williams, Jessica Ennis and even Casey Stoney, England Women’s Football captain, are some of the most influential sportswomen in the world. What makes it great is that they have recognised the need to be vocal and further promote their respective sports. They understand the responsibility that comes with the success they have gained.
The more success that women’s sports have had, the more popular these sports have become. For example England Women’s cricket team winning the World Cup in 2009 and the England Women’s football team coming third in the World cup recently in 2015 both inspiring more females to take up the sports; the success within these sports have led to a much greater recognition for women in sports.
The success British women have had in sports over the last few years is phenomenal, such as Lizzy Yarnold, Jo Pavey, Charlotte Dujardin and Kelly Gallagher; proving that women can be just as successful as men in sporting fields. Furthermore, the women’s sporting world in Britain is looking bright and I believe that more success is just around the corner.
“Everyone’s dream can come true if you just stick to it and work hard” – Serena Williams
On 20th February 2016 at Tipton Sports Academy, NHSF (UK)’s National Sports Competition will take place, where over 700 students from across the country will come together to participate in football, netball, badminton, kabaddi and kho-kho. The competition will allow students to showcase their talent but additionally show their leadership on the field. As National Sports Co-ordinator I hope that the competition highlights the talent we have, but also inspires more females to take up sports professionally, to become successful and be role models in their fields.
Nimesh Joshi
National Sports Co-ordinator