More Than 100 Attend Western New York Girls in Sports
The Western New York Girls in Sports program, a free sports sampling event for girls ages 9-12, saw high turnout for its fall event at St. Bonaventure University.
The 2024 Western New York Girls in Sports event, held on Saturday, October 5, at St. Bonaventure University, drew more than 100 girls from Cattaraugus and Allegany counties.
Funded by the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation and organized by the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County, United Way of Cattaraugus & Allegany Counties, and St. Bonaventure University, the event is designed to inspire young girls to participate in sports.
Throughout the day, the girls had the opportunity to sample a wide range of sports activities including basketball, lacrosse, soccer, and more, all under the guidance of NCAA DIV I student-athletes from St. Bonaventure University.
University students enthusiastically pitched in, leading the girls through sports drills and teaching them new skills.
“We are absolutely thrilled with the turnout and the enthusiasm from the girls,” Dr. Paula Scraba, OSF, St. Bonaventure associate professor of physical education, said. “This event is about more than just playing sports. It’s about building confidence and life-long skills.”
In addition to promoting fitness and teamwork, the WNY Girls in Sports program aims to create access and pathways for girls from underserved communities to get involved in sports at various levels, from local leagues to high school and collegiate programs.
The success of this event would not have been possible without the dedication of the St. Bonaventure University students and the support of the Wilson Foundation, whose funding made the event possible.
“We are incredibly proud to be part of an initiative that not only encourages young girls to be active but also empowers them to discover their strengths, both physically and mentally,” said Susan McAuley, United Way of Cattaraugus & Allegany Counties executive director.
“Events like these align perfectly with our mission to invest in the future of our youth by providing them with opportunities to grow, connect, and develop essential life skills. We look forward to seeing the lasting impact this experience will have on these girls and our community,” Mrs. McAuley added.
In addition to promoting fitness and teamwork, the WNY Girls in Sports program aims to create access and pathways for girls from underserved communities to get involved in sports at various levels, from local leagues to high school and collegiate programs.
Since its founding in 2006 by Mary Wilson, the Western New York Girls in Sports initiative has worked to expand access to sports programs for girls, particularly those from underserved neighborhoods.
The United Way of Cattaraugus & Allegany Counties brings people together to build strong communities where everyone thrives. They tackle tough challenges and work with private, public, and nonprofit partners to boost education, economic solutions, and health resources.
