Playing it Forward

Over the last 50 years, the struggles to achieve equity in sport have become central to the feminist mission. This book contains an inspiring collection of stories from the women on the front lines: athletes, coaches, educators, and activists for women's sport, who have done so much to foster change. Many of the women profiled here reflect on their tough beginnings in sport: being isolated and unconnected, competing in makeshift settings, training alone, and inadequate equipment. But they also reflect on the joy of movement, teamwork, and competition. These women grew to be remarkable role models and helped to dismantle sexism in sport. To read these stories is to swell with pride over their victories, to empathize with their battles with discrimination, and to become re-energized to confront collectively the many hurdles left to clear. Featuring contributions from notable sports stars Hayley Wickenheiser, Nikki Dryden, and more. "It is hard to put into context how much the world of sport has changed. This book helps us remember the distance we have come and the enormous debt we owe to women who fought for inclusion and equal support." - Silken Laumann, Canadian Olympian