PROGRESS Wrestling Celebrates National Girls & Women in Sports Day
Today marks a significant milestone in the world of sports and empowerment, the 38th annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). This day is not just a celebration; it’s a powerful reminder of the role sports play in fostering confidence, strength, and character among girls and women. These attributes are crucial in not only developing strong leaders in sports but in all walks of life.
The Women’s Sports Foundation kicks off its 50th anniversary this year.
In the spirit of NGWSD, PROGRESS Wrestling has taken a moment to highlight the achievements and insights of two remarkable athletes: the current PROGRESS Women’s World Champion, Rhio, and the 2023 PROGRESS Women’s Wrestler of the Year, Lana Austin. Both share their thoughts on empowerment, inspiration, and the hard work that has characterized their careers in professional wrestling…
Empowerment Through Wrestling
When asked about the most positive aspect of being a woman in the sport of wrestling, Rhio emphasized the inspirational role female wrestlers play. “The most positive thing,” Rhio noted, “is being able to inspire young girls to get involved in sports traditionally considered men’s or male-dominated. And not just to get involved, but to change the game.” Lana Austin echoed this sentiment, highlighting the supportive nature of the women’s wrestling community. “The women I’ve been around have been some of the most supportive people I’ve met, always pushing each other to be confident and better,” Lana said.
The Journey of Empowerment
Reflecting on how being a pro wrestler has empowered them, Rhio spoke to the development of a strong body, mind, and character, driven by a passion for wrestling. “Wrestling motivates me to keep building a strong body and mind and to be the best version of me,” she shared. This sentiment of self-improvement and empowerment through sports resonates strongly on NGWSD, underscoring the transformative power of athletic participation.
Leadership in the Locker Room
On the topic of leadership within the women’s locker room, Rhio modestly refrained from labelling herself as a leader but expressed her willingness to be a supportive figure for her peers. ” I’d like to think that if anyone in the locker room needed me for whatever reason that they would come to me.” This approach highlights the communal and supportive atmosphere that defines women’s wrestling, further illustrating the positive environment fostered among female athletes in the sport.
Overcoming Challenges
Both champions shared their experiences with nerves and overcoming them. Rhio recalled her excitement over nervousness when starting wrestling, while Lana remembered the competitiveness and determination sparked by being the only female in her training school. Their stories are testament to the resilience and determination required to succeed in pro wrestling and serve as inspiration for anyone looking to embark on a similar journey.
Advice for Aspiring Athletes
For those aspiring to become active in pro wrestling or any other sport, Rhio and Lana offer invaluable advice. Rhio suggests starting slow and focusing on self-improvement without comparison to others, while Lana emphasizes the importance of finding a good training school and persisting through the hard work. Their advice underscores the commitment and dedication necessary to excel in sports and beyond.
As we celebrate National Girls & Women in Sports Day, the stories and insights from Rhio and Lana Austin serve as powerful reminders of the impact sports can have on personal growth, empowerment, and leadership. Their journeys in professional wrestling reflect the broader potential of sports to inspire and transform, resonating with the core message of NGWSD and the ongoing mission of the Women’s Sports Foundation.
PROGRESS Wrestling 2024.
