Feb. 2, 2010

OXFORD, Ohio -- When the Miami Women's Basketball team returns to Millett Hall on Wednesday, for a battle with Ball State at 7:00 p.m., it will also be celebrating National Girls & Women in Sports Day by the Women's Sports Foundation. The Women's Sports Foundation advocates the participation of women and girls in sports, focusing on equality, education, and research for grants to promote sports and physical activity for girls and women. The Foundation was formed by Billie Jean King in 1974.

In honor of the celebration, three of Miami's women's sports (Track & Field, Soccer and Field Hockey) will present their 2010 recruiting classes at halftime. The combination of National Letter-of-Intent signing day and National Girls & Women in Sports Day is a great way to highlight female role models and female athletes.

Prior to the game, Miami will host a small reception for female leaders in the community. With the help of the Oxford Chamber of Commerce, Miami Athletics invited all businesses within the Oxford Chamber to attend the game.

Since its inception in 1987, National Girls and Women in Sports Day has become the premiere occasion to celebrate the participation, success and accomplishments of girls and women athletes. What started in 1987 as a single event in Washington, D.C. to honor Olympic volleyball star Flo Hyman has grown into a nationwide celebration across all 50 states. This year, thousands will gather to celebrate NGWSD 2010 and "Stay Strong, Play On." Athletes like Martina Navratilova, Candace Parker or Jessica Mendoza who played or are still playing are making a difference, overcoming difficult circumstances, breaking records and making things possible.

On Saturday, the women's team will hit the hardwood again, for its game against Western Michigan. "Kids Fest 2010" will be the theme of the game! Prior to the game, Miami student-athletes from several sports will be hosting a free clinic on the concourse. This will be an opportunity for youth to learn about sports, meet Miami's student-athletes and enjoy the Women's Basketball game. The clinic is free for all youth 8th grade and under, with paid admission to the game. This annual clinic has become a staple of the Women's Basketball season, offering a fun outlet for youth in the middle of winter.