Feb. 5, 2008

WASHINGTON - The American University women's basketball team celebrated National Girls and Women in Sports Day on Saturday, Feb. 2. The squad defeated Lafayette in a crucial Patriot League contest, 68-54, and joined with their fellow women student-athletes following the game to give back to the community.

Participants included the Girl Scouts of America, local youth groups as current AU student-athletes from each of the school's nine women's teams conducted a Q&A session, skills demonstrations, equipment displays and an autograph session. The event was directed by American University Athletics Associate Athletics Director and Senior Woman Administrator Athena Argyropoulos.

"This is a tremendous event for local youth to learn from and interact with our student-athletes," Argyropoulos said. "Our student-athletes enjoy giving back and helping share their experiences and talents as role models for young female athletes."

NGWSD is celebrated in all 50 states with community-based events, award ceremonies and activities honoring the achievements and encouraging participation of girls and women in sports. Whether you are a new participant or a veteran, your support of the day will go a long way to increase visibility for female athletes and advance their struggle for equality in sports. NGWSD began in 1987 as a day to remember Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman for her athletic achievements and her work to assure equality for women's sports. Hyman died of Marfan's Syndrome in 1986 while competing in a volleyball tournament in Japan. Since that time, NGWSD has evolved into a day to acknowledge the past and recognize current sports achievements, the positive influence of sports participation and the continuing struggle for equality and access for women in sports. NGWSD is jointly organized by the National Girls and Women in Sport Coalition.