Washington U. to Host JCC Female Fan Day

Washington University in St. Louis, in conjunction with the St. Louis Jewish Community Center (JCC), will celebrate the 21st annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) with the JCC Female Fan Day during the women's basketball game against 15th-ranked New York University on Sun., January 28. Tip-off is slated for 2 p.m. at the WU Field House.

"The female fan day at Washington University is a win-win situation for everyone," said Washington University associate intramurals director Lynn Imergoot. "The girls get to participate in a fun day of activities on campus and get to watch an exciting basketball game. This is the fifth year we are having this program, and look forward to a larger crowd than last year."

As part of the festivities, Washington University will welcome more than 70 athletes and families from the St. Louis community. They will participate in pregame activities and be provided with reserved courtside seats and Washington University giveaways, including a t-shirt. Following the game, the women's basketball team will conduct a photograph and autograph session.

NGWSD began in 1987 as a day to remember Olympic volleyball player Flo Hymann 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.

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 several groups, including the Women's Sports Foundation and the National Association for Girls and Women in Sports.

If you wish to participate, contact Natalie Lesko at (314) 442-3104. Events for Female Fun Day begin at 1 p.m. More information can be found at http://www.womenssportsfoundation.org.