Despite undeniable talent, dedication, and success, women athletes and sports traditionally associated with women, like gymnastics, figure skating, and softball, continue to receive significantly less financial backing and media exposure than their male counterparts. This impedance not only affects the livelihoods and opportunities of women in sports, but it also impacts how young girls view their potential in athletic spaces. To create a more equitable sporting world, systematic support and cultural change are essential. Here are several actionable ways we can all help support women athletes and elevate traditionally female sports:

Watch and Attend Women’s Sports:

One of the most powerful forms of support is simply showing up. Viewership and ticket sales drive revenue, sponsorship, and media interest. Watching live games, attending competitions, or streaming events online helps demonstrate market demand and supports athletes directly.

Tune into women’s games on TV or streaming platforms.
Attend local or professional women’s sporting events.
Share your support on social media to encourage others to do the same.

Advocate for Media Coverage:

Women’s sports receive just a fraction of sports media coverage. This lack of visibility affects everything from sponsorship deals to public interest. Advocating for more equitable media representation can shift that balance.

Contact local media outlets and ask for more coverage.
Support platforms and publications that regularly highlight women athletes.
Share and amplify stories about women in sports through your own channels.

Support Brands That Sponsor Women Athletes:

Sponsorships can provide a critical source of income and exposure for women athletes. When you buy from companies that invest in women’s sports, you help validate that support.

Choose products from companies that sponsor women athletes or teams.
Encourage brands to increase their support for women’s sports through consumer feedback.
Avoid companies that overlook or underfund female athletic talent.

Invest in Girls’ Youth Sports Programs:

equity stars early. Many young girls drop out of sports due to lack of access, support, or visible role models. Investing in youth sports programs helps create the next generation of confident, competitive athletes.

Donate to or volunteer with programs that serve young female athletes.
Advocate for equal funding and facilities at school and community centers.
Encourage girls to stay involved in sports and celebrate their achievements.

Push for Pay Equity and Institutional Support:

Despite breaking records and winning championships, women athletes are still frequently underpaid and undervalued. Institutional advocacy can help shift politics and budgets to reflect fairness.

Support organizations pushing for equal pay and rights in sports.
Vote for policy changes within sports organizations or education systems.
Hold leagues, federations, and sponsors accountable for gender equity.

Celebrate and Normalize Female Athleticism:

Changing how we talk about women in sports can have far reaching effects. Moving beyond appearance focused narratives and celebrating athletics performance helps reshape cultural norms.

Focus on skill, strength, and strategy when discussing female athletes.
Share achievements from women in sports with the same enthusiasm as men’s sports news.
Recognize women athletes not just during major events, but year-round.

Supporting women athletes and traditionally female sports is not just about fairness, it’s about unlocking the full potential of human athleticism. By showing up, speaking out, and putting out money and attention where it matters, we can create a sporting world where everyone, regardless of gender, has the chance to thrive. It’s not about giving women athletes a leg up, it’s about finally giving them the platform they deserve.

Leveling the Playing Field: How to Support Women Athletes and Traditionally Female Sports