Growing up I remember being told by my grandparents that sports were just for boys, but that never stopped me from picking up a ball. From the beginning of time, it seems that many televised sports have been focused on male competitions. This is an issue that is prominent even today, where many televised sports focus on the male divisions. Why? Traditionally girls have been taught to that their place is at home, meanwhile boys can do as they please. However, times have changed and one would think society’s prejudice would’ve changed as well. People still believe that women shouldn’t be out there playing sports or even watching them, which is ignorant on their part. Girls who like sports are often labeled as tomboys, masculine, and even occasionally looked down upon when compared to their male counterparts.

A few years ago, in middle school, I remember being the active little girl in gym class. I would play soccer or basketball with the boys in my class and became great friends with many, who were surprised that I was a fan. But my gym teacher did not like the idea of me playing with the guys, because it was too dangerous, and I was going to get hurt. So, he would make me play with the girls, who were not interested in playing.

One day, I remember bring tired of sitting on the sidelines and watching the guys play. I went up to the teacher and asked why he was being a sexist, taken aback by my words, he tried to come up with an excuse. Before he answered, I asked him, “If my father does not stop me from playing sports, then who are you to stop me?” With that I walked away and joined the guys who were playing soccer. After this confrontation, he never stopped me from playing with the boys in my gym class. After playing the rest of the year, my gym teacher apologized to me for the separation. My comments were to ensure I got to play, not for an apology. As a young kid I was able to allow for other girls who liked sports would have the courage to play the sport even when being separated.

Sports have become that special bond that I eventually shared with my dad. He believes that a girl can do anything she wants, maybe his beliefs may be bias since he has three daughters. His bias pushed me to play multiple sports like soccer and basketball.

I may not be the best player, but the various sports have taught me a lot. At home, all we do is watch sports. There isn’t a day in which ESPN isn’t on. Our obsession has driven my mother crazy, and her attempts to make me girly have not yet worked. I think she gave up because she saw that my dad has finally someone to talk to when it comes to sports. My dad and I have tried to encourage my sisters to choose what they are most comfortable in by showing them the options they have. One of younger sister has shown interest, therefore, I have vowed to encourage and support her love for sports. My dad is happy that despite her age she is able to enjoy sports and is knowledgeable about them.

I will always encourage girls to play sports and to challenge themselves. Playing sports is not about winning but about growing into a confident person who knows how to handle oneself in different situations, as well as having fun. If you can’t play a sport, don’t let that stop you from learning it and reaching your goal, even if that means watching from the sidelines once in while.

On that note, guys, please do us girls a favor and don’t question our knowledge in sports.