Sophomore Audra Petty shooting in game against Averett University | Game Recap: Women’s Basketball | 2/14/2026 7:00:00 PM
By: Jamison Smith | Staff Writer
In 2026, no one bats an eye at the number of women competing in sports, but less than 60 years ago, it would have been unheard of. Since Title IX was passed in 1972, the number of women participating in college sports has increased from 16% to 44%. Today, women across the country cannot only compete but also excel.
For Eliza Fleenor, a sophomore swimmer at the University of Lynchburg, participating in sports helped her become confident in herself.
“Being a female athlete has shaped my identity by building my confidence and helping me trust myself. It’s made me more resilient and willing to take on challenges, and that mindset carries into my school, relationships, and future goals,”said Fleenor
For senior basketball and volleyball player Bree Spainhour, sports have brought her lifelong friendships and experiences she wouldn’t have had otherwise.
“Being an athlete has taught me the importance of commitment and seeing things through, even when it is hard. The friendships and lasting memories will be part of who I am long after I stop playing sports,” said Spainhour
Sports play a big role in mental health, according to junior field hockey player Shay Schoones, who emphasized the importance of separating her identity from her athletics.
“I mostly make sure to have an identity that’s not tied to being an athlete. Whether that is by focusing on academics or making sure to spend time with my friends who are not connected to my sports team. I think generally just making an effort to be kind to myself and give myself the time to recover away from my sport,” said Schoones
Schoone field hockey coach, Jennifer Releford, credits her success and passion for her job to her fellow women in athletics at the University of Lynchburg.
“Being surrounded by strong, supportive women who understand the demands of the profession is huge. We lean on each other, communicate openly, and create an environment where it’s okay to be honest about challenges. That sense of shared understanding and support plays a big role in maintaining my mental well-being,” said Releford.
Junior indoor volleyball player Ava Meinhardt encouraged young female athletes to continue pursuing their passion in athletics, “Make sure to still find ways to enjoy what you are doing. Don’t feel pressured to overdo it if you are feeling burnt out, and don’t let anyone or anything ruin it for you! Give yourself grace and enjoy being around friends and playing the sport you may love, said Meinhardt, emphasizing that each challenge is important in your development as an athlete and a person.
As women’s athletics worldwide continue to develop, it is important to foster an environment that supports and uplifts women and girls.
From Katherine Switzer, the first female athlete to compete in track at Lynchburg College, to the hundreds of women competing as Hornets today, it is important to celebrate women in athletics every day.
For more information about Lynchburg athletics, visit their website
