Reflections on National Girls and Women in Sports Day
(Note: This article was intended for February 5, the official National Girls and Women in Sports Day. I apologize for the delay.)
The first year women were permitted to compete in the Olympics was 1920, marking a significant milestone in sports history. Remarkably, only a century has passed since then. Not long ago, societal norms discouraged women from participating in sports altogether, a perspective I have always found perplexing. The human body—regardless of gender—is inherently designed for movement, and sport serves as a celebration of our physical capabilities. I am immensely grateful that times have changed, allowing women to experience the joy that comes from athletic participation.
Another misconception I have struggled to comprehend is the belief that fighting is not appropriate for women. In fact, I contend that there are compelling reasons for women to possess self-defense skills, perhaps even more so than men. Historically, martial arts have been male-dominated, with limited female participation. However, as the landscape evolves, we now witness a growing number of high-profile female fighters, instructors, and school owners who are not only excelling but also inspiring others to embrace martial arts.
I am thankful to live in an era where women are thriving in various sports, including martial arts. Our academy has committed itself to celebrating the strength of both boys and girls, empowering all students to harness their potential and defend themselves against threats, while also promoting a philosophy of peace. Additionally, we take pride in hiring women who can serve as role models for other women interested in martial arts. Our goal is to cultivate a new generation of female leaders within our academy, ensuring that the tradition of women inspiring women continues.
To all the women and girls out there, we celebrate your achievements in sports and martial arts. You are powerful. May you discover ways to express that power in the world and find joy in movement.