WNBA Stars Take Center Stage at UEL: Empowering Women in Sports Leadership
The University of East London (UEL) recently played host to a group of talented US basketball players as part of an international initiative to empower women in sports and leadership. This exciting event, titled 'Her Time to Play', coincides with the NBA's highly anticipated London Game, marking its return to the city since 2019. The game, set to take place at The O2 on January 18, features a thrilling regular-season match between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic.
Hilary Lissenden, executive director of sport strategy and growth at UEL, expressed her enthusiasm for the week's activities: "This week has been about bringing our community together around basketball and recognizing the NBA game taking place in London. From referee and coaching clinics to Her Time to Play sessions, we've been proud to welcome participants to our Olympic-standard facilities and create meaningful opportunities for community engagement, student experience, and talent development."
The event featured a range of engaging activities, including basketball clinics and a leadership panel. Former WNBA player Briann January and WNBA director of innovation and growth Lauren Dwyer shared their insights and experiences, inspiring young women to pursue leadership roles in sports. These sessions aimed to address the challenges faced by girls and women in sports, such as fear of judgment, low confidence, and the impact of menstruation.
According to the text, more than one million girls in the UK disengage from sports during their teenage years, with girls being 22% less likely to participate in team sports compared to boys. Additionally, the enjoyment of physical education (PE) drops significantly from 86% in early childhood to just 56% by ages 14 and 15. The barriers to participation are multifaceted, with fear of judgment, low confidence, and menstruation being significant factors. Over a third of girls avoid sports during their periods, highlighting the need for initiatives that support women and girls in sports.
UEL's commitment to addressing these challenges is evident through its targeted initiatives and support for global programs like 'Her Time to Play'. Erik Brucker from NBA Operations praised UEL's role as a basketball hub in the UK, particularly in London, highlighting the university's outstanding facilities and investment in the sport. He emphasized the importance of UEL's involvement in London basketball events, stating, "When basketball is happening in London, UEL should be involved. They have been tremendous hosts, and we’re really grateful for the commitment UEL has shown to growing the game."
This event not only showcased the talent of WNBA players but also served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing efforts to promote women's leadership in sports. By providing a platform for these athletes and leaders, UEL is contributing to a more inclusive and diverse sports landscape, inspiring the next generation of female athletes and leaders.
