Tuesday, January 27, 2009
The History of Women's Football
I was involved in a conversation about women's football over the weekend and someone asked about the history of women in the sport. I knew there were tackle football teams in the past and other games with varied rules throughout time. I found a few different sources that talk about women in the game over the years:
Women's Professional Football League gives a detailed timeline
A historical account on the Sacramento Sirens, an IWFL team, website
Another history that talks about women in flag football and says that football was played in ancient times
Today, it is exciting to note that flag football is being organized in some states at the high school level for girls. Women's Football Talk brought this to my attention and is doing what their part to spread the word about fundraising efforts to get another state what it needs to participate. As it stands, girls in Florida and Alaska have this sport available to them. The NFL is also involved and you can read more about the campaign here.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
11 comments:
Something seems a little demeaning about this, but it would be good advertising if some women's teams could play during the halftime of an NFL game. As far as I know, that has never happened, at least not recently. I noticed on the timeline this happened in the 20s, but was only for entertainment purposes. I know some college rugby teams play in the football stadiums during halftime just to get more people interested in the game.
I'm not sure what I think about flag football (I'm all about the tackling), but it's a start and sounds like lots of girls and women are enjoying it. I'm glad to hear the NFL is being supportive, too.
Yeah - I don't know how that would play out. Some people would like it and some would be offended.
Lindsey, if I was a player that played on a professional team would be offended if I had to play or played at halftime during a NFL game. These women are professional players like the NFL and that would be a big step down. That's just my opinion; I think the bigger goal is to get people to recognize that Woman Tackle football is here and here to stay!
I knew there would be comments on all sides of this. I'll ask some of the players what they thing.
On one hand - exposure and on the other hand, an exhibition that could be demeaning.
Thanks for stopping by SG!
Yeah I can see your point, Sports Geek. I'm not sure if it's a good idea or not. I guess it's up to the players themselves. I don't think I'd be offended. I'd look at it as an opportunity. But I'm no professional athlete.
I have recently retired from a 7-year career with the Cleveland Fusion. During my career we played at the Browns' (2003) and Lions' (2004) stadiums. When we played at the Browns' stadium it happened to be on the NFL draft day. Last year we played at half-time of a Cleveland Gladiators' game (Arena Football). My teammates & I did not feel demeaned. The fans were very supportive as well as intrigued. We have to get as much exposure as possible, considering TV sports networks would rather televise spelling bees and poker tours . . .
Thank you for stopping by and telling us what you think, Lisa!
Thanks Lisa, I just wanted to say my say so, I can see from your standpoint too. I just hate that we all have to work hard on getting Woman's Tackle football on someone's radar.....I hope things change this year and I know I am working hard on spreading the word! Thank you everyone for your input it is greatly appreciated!
Post a Comment