The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh will honor girls and women in sports on April 21 prior to the Titans’ softball doubleheader in recognition of the national Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD).
The day will kick-off with the coach of 18 national NCAA titles Deb Vercauteren and three-time Olympian Suzy Favor Hamilton at11:30 a.m. in the Russ Young team room at the Oshkosh Sports Complex. Each will share their successful experiences.
Following the speakers, everyone is encouraged to attend the softball doubleheader versus UW-River Falls where Hamilton will throw the out the first pitch at 2 p.m. Free admission will be given to all girls and women, and everyone in attendance for the speakers will receive a meal voucher for a hot dog, chips and drink.
After the games, bring your blankets to J.J. Keller Field and watch A League of Their Own on the videoboard (weather permitting). Chairs will not be allowed on the artificial turf surface. The movie will begin at approximately 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
Throughout her 29 years as the women’s cross country and track and field coach at UW Oshkosh, Vercauteren’s teams won 18 national titles and 36 WIAC championships. Her student-athletes also earned 58 individual crowns and 331 All-America honors. Vercauteren is the only coach in Division III history to win national titles in women’s cross country, women’s indoor track and field, and women’s outdoor track and field.
Favor Hamilton achievements include three appearances at the Olympics (’92, ’96, ’00), seven U.S. National Championships, nine NCAA titles, and the honor of the fastest 1500m time in the world in 2000. She also ran sub-four in the 1500m five times. Favor Hamilton has been featured on the cover of numerous sport and fitness magazines and published a book titled Fast Track, which aims to help young female runners avoid common mistakes and perform at their best.
National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) began 25 years ago to honor Flo Hyman, an Olympic volleyball player, for her accomplishments and her efforts to attain equality for women’s sports. This day has continued to grow and is celebrated in all 50 states by various organizations, companies and universities.
John Dinse submitted this announcement. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to contribute calendar items, campus announcements and other good news to UW Oshkosh Today.