(Photo by Kiko Mutuc)
THE RISE OF WOMEN’S SPORTS
By Jairah De Vera (The Bedan Herald)
OVER the past year, women’s sports have gained significant traction, attracting widespread support from fans and advocates worldwide. Various sports, such as women’s basketball, volleyball, and football, have reached record-breaking viewership and garnered unprecedented attention, marking a transformative shift in the athletic landscape.
Increased Media Coverage
The steady rise in media coverage of women’s sports over the past year has been one of the most noticeable developments in the field. Nowadays, fans can watch their favorite female athletes and teams thanks to major local networks and online platforms investing in broadcasting women’s leagues, matches, and tournaments. Events like the UAAP Women’s Basketball Competition and the PBA All-Filipino Women’s League have drawn significant audiences, building a vibrant community around women’s sports. The growth in media coverage has not only engaged new and existing supporters but also inspired young female athletes to pursue their dreams in various sports fields.
In an interview with The Bedan Herald, Sam Carianga (I-BAIS-T), a member of San Beda College Alabang’s Women’s Volleyball Team, stated, “I agree po na many people na rin po ang nag-su-support sa’min mga women when it comes to sports.” Carianga expressed her agreement with the noticeable increase in attention and support that women’s sports have gained throughout the past year. When asked about her personal experience as a female athlete, Carianga shared, “I really feel na na-a-appreciate din kami ng ibang tao kasi minsan may stereotype pa rin na porket babae, mahina na.”
Breaking the Stigma
Beyond the metrics and achievements, there is a noticeable cultural shift in Filipino society regarding women’s sports, particularly when it comes to female athletes pursuing their passion in traditionally male-dominated sports. Once viewed through the lens of stereotypes, female athletes are now celebrated as role models and inspirations. Social media has amplified this change. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook allow female athletes to share their stories, connect with fans, and engage with their fellow athletes.
The rise of online campaigns advocating for women’s sports has also encouraged conversations about inclusivity in athletics and the importance of nurturing a supportive community around female athletes. This movement has fueled the growth of community sporting events and grassroots initiatives, encouraging young girls to participate in sports from an early age.
SBCA’s Team Bene point guard, Kiara Villanueva (III-BSBA-FM), shared her sentiments about playing in a predominantly male-dominated sport. She revealed that she is often underestimated in her field due to her size and gender. Villanueva spoke about the struggles she has faced as a female basketball player and the grueling challenges that come with it. However, by working hard and never giving up, she has shown that she can perform at the same level as men in her sport. Villanueva described her dedication to proving herself as an established female player, stating, “By consistently demonstrating my skills and determination, I aim to show that women are just as capable, and sometimes even better, than men in sports.”
From another perspective, Bea Talayaratne (II-BAIS-T) of SBCA’s Women’s Futsal Team described how her experience playing a contact sport has led her to face multiple challenges, particularly being underestimated and compared to men in the same sport, as well as her fear of being discriminated against due to her gender. Talayaratne shared how these experiences sometimes made her question her skills and place in futsal, but she never let them deter her from pursuing the sport. “I may not be the best, but being persistent and giving my all every game is what matters. You can’t expect great results as an athlete when you’re not persistent and disciplined enough to improve,” Talayaratne stated.
What’s Next for These Female Athletes
As the popularity of women’s sports continues to grow, so does the pressure on these athletes. Yet, the female athletes of San Beda remain dedicated to honing their skills and making their teams and school proud. After sharing their sentiments on the growth of women’s sports, their personal experiences in the field, and their journey as student-athletes at San Beda, it’s inspiring to catch a glimpse of what happens beyond the court for these remarkable women.
The talented female athletes of SBCA are determined to prove themselves and continue pushing the boundaries of women’s sports. While the rise of women’s sports is gaining momentum, this is just the beginning for these driven athletes. They are seizing opportunities to compete at higher levels, represent their school nationally, and advocate for greater support and recognition for women in sports. With every step forward, they inspire others and show that the growth of women’s sports is here to stay. Their hard work and dedication pave the way for an exciting future—and the community is watching, ready to cheer them on.
(photos courtesy of Kiko Mutuc)
