Top 12 moments in women’s sports for 2012 (in no particular order). Think I missed something? Let me know in the comments section below.
1) The Olympics shined a bright light on the excellence of female athletes. Too bad the mainstream media only gives a shit every 4 (or 2 including the winter games) years. Just a few of the outstanding performers include: Allyson Felix, Sanya Richards-Ross, the women’s gymnastics team, Kayla Harrison, the undefeated women’s basketball team, Missy Franklin, and many many more. If only women’s sports received this much acclaim every year.
2) Women’s boxing makes its Olympic Games debut. Bout time.
3) New professional women’s soccer league is formed. Here’s hoping that a new and improved business model can sustain the league for many years to come.
4) Baylor Bears. 40-0.
5) The resurgence of Serena Williams. Entering the rarefied air of Martina/Chris Evert.
6) Pat Summitt retires. We will never see another coach like her. She’s handled her illness with bravery and class.
7) The 40th anniversary of Title IX. Opened doors for female athletes at every level of competition.
8) Megan Rapinoe of the US Women’s soccer team comes out as a lesbian. A brave and important step towards acceptance and inclusion.
9) Shannon Eastin becomes the first NFL referee (sure, it occurred during the lock-out but still a big deal).
10) Diana Nyad, age 62, makes 4th attempt to become the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage. She was unsuccessful but her courage is inspiring. And did I mention she was swimming without a shark cage.
11) Ronda Rousey became the first female fighter to sign a contract with the UFC in 2012. Bad a$$.
12) US women’s soccer team appreciation tour. Good TV ratings, great crowds, inspired play. Someday adequate press coverage will follow.
Women's Sports Watch 