Feb. 3, 2010

Call VB Contact Michael Stambaugh for more details - 386.481.2278

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - Bethune-Cookman Volleyball players and coaches joined over 500 middle and high school girls, Wednesday, February 3, at Mainland High School to celebrate National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). It was the third annual celebration in Volusia County and the 24th nationally.

The celebration featured an address by keynote speaker, Renee Brown, Chief of Basketball Operations and Player Relations for the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). There was also an appearance by Daytona Beach's Alli Owens, a race car driver in the ARCA Racing Series, in addition to recognition of college-bound student athletes and awards for outstanding Volusia County girls.

NGWSD began in 1987 as a day to remember Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman for her athletic achievements and work to assure equality for women's sports. NGWSD is now celebrated in all 50 states with community-based events, award ceremonies and activities honoring the achievements and encouraging participation of girls and women in sports. This year event centered around the theme, "Stay Strong, Play On".

"We were very happy to have the opportunity to be a part of this nationally celebrated event," said Head Coach Vanessa Cogswell. "It was not that long ago when girls and women were not permitted to participate in sport activities. It's very fitting to have my players join in the celebration as they have been given an excellent opportunity to further their education due, in part, because of their athletic ability.  Also, the young students participating in the National Girls & Women in Sports Day event were able to see those that look like them succeeding beyond college."