A DECADE OF CELEBRATING GIRLS SPORTS

10th annual Girls Sports Day L.A.

LOS ANGELES – The 10th annual Girls Sports Day L.A., a free event devoted to increasing female involvement in athletics, was held on Saturday, April 19, 2008, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Rancho Cienega Sports Complex, a City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks facility located at 5001 Rodeo Rd., in the Crenshaw area, next to Dorsey High School.

Hundreds of females ages 6-18 spent the day learning about and participating in various sports activities, including free clinics in basketball, football, soccer, and softball. The theme of this year’s event was “Inspire Your Inner Champion!”. Each participant received lunch and a free T-shirt.

The event was established through a partnership between Recreation and Parks and Los Angeles Women in Sports (LAWinS), and is part of the Department’s Raise the Bar Gender Equity Program, which strives to “achieve gender equity through a continuous commitment to girls and women in sports.”

Studies have shown that girls who participate in sports do better in school, are more likely to take on leadership roles, and learn to set personal goals. In addition, sports participation improves self-esteem, helps create friendships, and breaks down social barriers. Physical activity is also an effective way for girls to fight depression while lowering their risks for heart disease and breast cancer.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Jane Kolb: (213) 928-9294

Harvey Drut: (213) 928-9296