This past Saturday, on November 18, 2023, the IWN Lakewood Ranch Chapter embarked on a meaningful journey to attend the President’s Cup for the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA). Our purpose? To stand beside and support the incredible women athletes in lacrosse through our Stand For Women Campaign.
Our journey began long before we set foot on the field. To ensure our message reached far and wide, we took to social media platforms like Nextdoor and Facebook, reaching out to our local community. The response was nothing short of amazing, with a remarkable 8,152 participants making the event a grand success.
Collaborating closely with IWF Spokeswoman Kim Russell, a Coach to Lacrosse Players, our chapter engaged in heartfelt conversations with athletes, coaches, attendees, and vendors throughout the event. It wasn’t just about the game; it was about advocating for the rights and opportunities of these remarkable female athletes.
Our presence at the President’s Cup wasn’t just about showing up; it was a tangible demonstration of our unwavering support for female athletes in the sport. The feedback we received from both men and women at the event was humbling, as they thanked us for standing up to ensure that female sports are protected.
One of our main concerns, and a key focus of our advocacy, revolves around potential changes to Title IX proposed by the Biden Administration. The shift from discrimination based on sex to “gender” raises concerns about inclusivity in female-only sports. We want to be clear – we stand against such changes, advocating fervently for the preservation of women’s sports exclusively for female athletes.
In conclusion, our experience at the IWLCA President’s Cup was not just an event; it was a deeply personal and impactful statement. A statement of support, empowerment, and a call to action to protect the integrity of women’s sports. As we reflect on this unforgettable day, our commitment to advocating for female athletes in lacrosse and beyond remains stronger than ever.
The Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association, referred to as the IWLCA, is a membership-led, professional association representing the nation’s intercollegiate women’s lacrosse coaches. These college coaches within women’s lacrosse span Division I, II & III of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).Â
To learn more about the IWN Lakewood Ranch Chapter please contact Bridget Matthes at 941-243-0739 or visit iwnetwork.com to join our organization and make an impact.Â
