For years, females have striven to show the world their competitive edge in the sports arena. And, in Detroit, women are showing the city what they’ve got – both on and off the field.
"Sometimes you have to kick it to the people who say you can’t do something because you are a woman," says Angeline Robinson, a former athlete from Detroit. "Sports are a way for us to build confidence and show people that we can be athletic, too."
Robinson is currently a psychology major at Wayne State University. She has found that her years of volleyball, cheerleading and gymnastics have taught her time management. That skill has proven invaluable because she can now handle a busy schedule without conflicting appointments.
"Sports have helped me mentally," says Jasmin Dixon, a sophomore point guard for King High School’s basketball team. "You have to take big steps. If you keep working, you will succeed."
Athletes also find that being a part of a sports team builds great communication skills. This is something that can be carried on throughout life and can be a valuable asset in the classroom or workplace. Communication is essential for teamwork and results in success.
More important, sports give athletes the motivation to succeed in other aspects of their lives. Some even find the drive to give back to their community.
Robinson was involved in Habitat For Humanity. She was put on a team and was given the task of moving materials and gardening. This was a learning experience for her.
"It was a way for us to get to know the community better," she explains. "You form connections that turn into lasting friendships."
More often, women’s voices are being heard in a field where they were often ignored. Their duties include more than cooking and cleaning, and they expect to be treated as equals. They play with heart and look their competition in the eye. Sometimes the competition is society. Sometimes it is the opposing team. Either way, they give their all to come out on top.
"When guys joke around with each other and say, ‘You throw like a girl,’ I don’t think that it is such a bad thing," says Robinson, laughing. "Some girls can give them all a run for their money."