One fine evening, as I stood on my balcony sipping coffee, the sounds of cheering after a goal, the roar following a successful basket, and players passionately debating with the umpire over a wicket caught my attention. Boys and men were scattered across the ground, playing their hearts out. In the distance, I could see tennis racquets serving volleys with energy and precision.
The next morning, I returned to my balcony with my morning cup of coffee, greeted by shrill, enthusiastic voices. To my surprise and delight, I saw women practicing cricket. It took me a moment to recall the message in our society’s WhatsApp group about the Women’s T20 League. Watching them practice with such enthusiasm was heartening. Adding to the vibrant scene were a few kids bowling for their mothers, infusing even more life into the game.
This sight got me thinking: Are we women holding back our sporting desires for myriad reasons? Sports are not just about enjoyment but also about maintaining health and well-being. Sadly, women who pursue sports are often mocked and looked down upon.
“If you want to achieve something in life, you have to take risks.” – Dipa Karmakar
This quote resonates deeply when it comes to women pursuing sports. It reminds me of an anecdote I once read that left a lasting impression.
Initially, I thought societal resistance was limited to close family and friends. However, Mithali Raj, our women’s cricket team captain, shared a story that made my heart sink.
According to Mithali, when the Indian women’s cricket team was set to play a one-day match, they didn’t have proper jerseys. Upon requesting them, the issued jerseys turned out to be oversized ones meant for the men’s team. Despite this setback, the women didn’t let it discourage them.
Instead, it fueled their determination to prove themselves.
“Overpower. Overtake. Overcome.” – Serena Williams
Think about it: Haven’t we always had to prove ourselves? Every woman athlete in our country has faced struggles. If the family is supportive, societal norms or institutional biases often become the hurdles.
“You make your own luck. You make it in training.” – Simone Biles
Returning to my balcony scenes, my heart swelled with pride at seeing so many women carve out time from their busy lives—whether homemakers or working professionals—to play, encourage, and cheer each other on.
Watching them, I felt an urge to grab a bat myself and take a shot at the game!
“Many times, I had to dig deep and perform. All of that adversity helped me and drove me to want to be the best.” – Hayley Wickenheiser
We women are stronger than we give ourselves credit for. It’s about embracing courage and taking bold steps forward. Mary Kom, a mother who climbed into the boxing ring to win medals, and the sprinter who ran while six months pregnant, should be our inspirations.
“Courage, sacrifice, determination, commitment, toughness, heart, talent, guts. That’s what little girls are made of; the heck with sugar and spice.” – Bethany Hamilton
By Kirti V
Kirti, a teacher by profession and a poet by passion is a multilinguist, a voracious reader and an orator. She has authored three solo poetry books (Tides of Life, From My Pen and Poetic Pearls) and has contributed to around 50+ anthologies. Her works can be read from www.kirtisignature.com and she can be reached at kirti.v@gmail.com
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