Education and Research

In the 110-year history of NAGWS, primary focus has been on programs, products and services that support education and research related to girls and women in sport.  Not only are important sessions being presented at AAHPERD National Convention each year on a variety of issues related to women and girls in sport, but programs and publications are available through NAGWS to help people address their concerns about issues such as gender equity, career advancement, media representation, and injury prevention (among others) as they relate to females.

Gender equity/Title IX have been focuses for NAGWS for many years and programs like Backyards and Beyond or Generations of Title IX help professionals and lay people better understand how gender equity issues can be addressed in their lives.

Encouraging girls to stay active has also been a long-term commitment from NAGWS.  The Your Next Steps program for female student-athletes in junior high, high school and college is a valuable tool to assist young athletes in planning their futures.

NAGWS offers a variety of educational resources through the AAHPERD Online Store.  Recent releases such as a 3-disc DVD set on Title IX, a book on eating disorders and a book on women's leadership in sport are important additions to any library.

Research is important to professional members of NAGWS and Women in Sport and Physical Activity Journal (WSPAJ) is a very special online journal dedicated to women in sport.  Research and positions presented in WSPAJ cover a broad spectrum of issues that are important to those conducting research as well as those in teaching or administrative positions.

Because there are so many issues to address related to girls and women in sport, NAGWS has created a series of Position Papers which can serve as a resource for those making decisions in their careers or those who are forming personal opinions. 

With an ever-increasing number of girls and women participating in sports, understanding how to best provide positive experiences is critical, and NAGWS continues to be a leader and advocate for all girls and women in sport.