This weekend, women and girls are encouraged to explore a variety of new sports at the Her Sports Fest in North York. The event spans three days, kicking off on Friday evening at the Hangar Sport and Events Centre, showcasing a range of sports like skateboarding, sailing, and boxing to inspire women’s participation and passion for sports.
According to festival co-founder Sherry Lamb, there is a growing interest in professional women’s sports, but it is crucial to motivate young women and girls to engage in diverse sports to sustain this momentum. Lamb highlighted Toronto as a hub for women’s sports, citing the presence of three professional teams like the Toronto Tempo and emerging local talents in tennis and golf.
The emphasis of the festival is on participation and helping individuals discover the sports that resonate with them, rather than striving to become elite athletes. The event features demonstrations, appearances by athletes, and opportunities for attendees to try out different sports with instructors and equipment.
Lamb noted that each sport offers unique opportunities for girls, emphasizing that participation in sports not only opens doors to the professional level but also provides valuable mental and community support, aiding in personal growth.
In the realm of skateboarding, Adam Higgins, interim executive director of Skateboard Canada, highlighted the increasing presence of women in the sport, with numerous rising stars making a mark in recent years. He mentioned that skateboarding is evolving professionally, presenting new avenues for athletes, including the upcoming Olympic qualifying period.
Samantha Chan, founder and head coach of Soul Good Boxing, pointed out the rising female participation in boxing, despite it being predominantly male-dominated due to its perceived aggressive nature. She emphasized the numerous benefits of boxing for women, such as a comprehensive workout, empowerment, and the camaraderie forged with fellow boxers.
At the Her Sports Fest, girls can delve into the basics of boxing under the guidance of coaches or even test their skills on a punching bag, offering them a glimpse into the empowering world of the sport.