RIVERDALE, N.Y. – Manhattan College Athletics hosted its National Girls and Women in Sports Day Clinic on Saturday after the women's basketball game against Saint Peter's inside Draddy Gymnasium.
"It's awesome that the youth get to see the student-athletes playing, also getting exposure to pick another sport, learn new skills, and potentially spark a new interest," said director of athletics Marianne Reilly.
The clinic, free for kids aged 5-12, had stations featuring basketball, cross country and track and field, lacrosse, rowing, soccer, swimming, softball, and volleyball. Manhattan student-athletes showcased their respective sports at each station to close to 100 kids, who were split into groups.
"I believe in giving back or giving to the future. This is excellent because they will end up Manhattan Jaspers or athletes somewhere else. The more excited and positive we are at giving back and paying it forward, the more we will leave the sports in good hands," said women's basketball assistant coach
Samera Marsh. Marsh and a few Jaspers instructed the kids after beating Saint Peter's 57-44 earlier on Saturday.
"It is important to have the kids involved and have them feel a sense of community with Manhattan College. It is great to have them try out different sports, and they may be Jaspers one day," added women's volleyball student-athlete Julianne McKee.
National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) began in 1987 as a special day in our nation's capital to recognize women's sports. The day united premiere organizations and elite female athletes to bring national attention to the promise of girls and women in sports. NGWSD is celebrated annually across all 50 states with community-based events, award ceremonies, and other celebratory activities. NGWSD is organized by the members of the National Girls & Women in Sports Day Coalition. Champion women athletes have also contributed to annual NGWSD activities.
The goal of NGWSD is to engage with young girls (ages 5-12) in the community. This celebration inspires girls and women to play and be active, to realize their full power. The confidence, strength, and character gained through sports participation are the tools girls and women need to become strong leaders in sports and life.
"Today was a great opportunity for young girls to get into sports. It is good for them to have examples of older girls playing sports. Then they will be inspired to play, too, and that excites me," noted
Ellie Provda of women's lacrosse.
Gallery: (2-10-2023) 2023 NGWSD Clinic
