Posted: Jan 24, 2012

MCLA holds 23rd annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day celebration

North Adams, MA- The MCLA athletics department hosted over 60 participants in their 23rd annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day celebration held on Saturday, January 21st. The 2012 event also celebrated the 40th anniversary of Title IX.

In total, there were 18 adults, 44 girls, and over 70 MCLA student athletes who participated in the day long celebration. Clinics were offered in multiple sports including Basketball, Soccer, Golf, and Softball. Added to this years lineup were fresh activities such as Pickleball and Zumba Fitness.

The celebration is coordinated by MCLA assistant Athletic Director and Senior Women's administrator, Dot Houston. Over the past 23 years, the event has grown from halftime participation and activities to a full day's worth of events.

"It's a chance to introduce young girls and women to something that could potentially keep them active for years to come," Houston said. "In the case of girls grades 3-8, the idea is to get them started young, and the student athletes are here to mentor children."

Guests of the event included nationally recognized PGA Golf instructor Kay McMahon and Barbara Lopiccolo, a national doubles pickleball champion. Pickleball is termed "one of the fastest growing sports in America."

Following the clinic sessions and morning program, all participants were invited guests for the MCLA Basketball doubleheader against Fitchburg State University.