As a female athlete myself, one of my favorite childhood movies that my parents, sisters, and I would watch was A League of Their Own, it’s a classic! It was based on a true story about women entering the sports entertainment industry in the early 1940’s and how they pioneered women’s roles both on and off the field. I recently read an article about young female athletes and all the health benefits they can reap by playing a sport. All kids who play sports are less likely to develop chronic health issues like obesity and type 2 diabetes. But they may also have an inside track on
educational and job prospects – in which those impacts are particularly strong for young girls.
A study in 2015 found that female athletes are more likely to excel in high school science and math than non-athletes. By playing sports they also hone their collaboration, communication, and leadership skills. All of these characteristics can lead to enhanced education and career opportunities. So if you want the young girls in your life to have a better chance at calling the shots down the road – and to be healthier and more confident at all ages – – encourage them to include a sport or two in their game plan.
-Sarah Caudle PA-C
