Cara Dunlop was one of several VIU Mariners who took part in a presentation and discussion about the importance of sport on International Women's Day. (Northfield Photography)

By Dan Marshall

Inspiring Women

International Women’s Day inspires local conversation on women in sport

Mar 13, 2021 | 10:36 AM

NANAIMO – The VIU Mariners women’s soccer team used International Women’s Day to show the importance of supporting other women in sport.

The team hosted an online question and answer session to celebrate their love of ‘the beautiful game’. Players and coaches from the women’s team made a presentation which delved into why they got into university athletics.

Dover Bay grad Cara Dunlop, a part of the VIU program since 2018, credits her involvement for helping her become the person she is today.

“I coach from age three to seven and often I’m one of the first coaches these kids have so I take my role very seriously. I want all children to have a positive first experience in sports.”

The camaraderie among teammates on the VIU team was evident in a short video from the 2019 CCAA nationals in Edmonton.

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The video was a small part of the overall presentation and showcased the bond shared by the athletes.

Dunlop hopes young girls will try many different sports and continue to keep athletics in their lives through their teenage years so they can have the same positive experiences she had.

She experienced a notable drop off in participation as girls get closer to high school age.

“When I was in Grade 8 there were multiple girls basketball and volleyball teams, there were so many girls who wanted to play. But then fast forward to Grade 12 and we struggled to put five girls on the floor for our senior girls basketball team.”

Dunlop believes she and her teammates can help young athletes gain self confidence and learn perseverance by sharing their experiences.

“Having role models like our soccer team and the other teams at VIU to reach out and engage with younger players might help others gain some confidence. We’ve been through the same things they are going through.”

VIU women’s coach Kevin Lindo was part of the online event and felt there were many positive messages. He praised his players for making the effort to give something back.

“The team has a strong desire to connect with the community, particularly with young females. It’s an important part of our team values.”

Lindo noted the VIU players are also involved in after school programs and other initiatives like Hope and Health which brings together Indigenous communities through sport.

The goal is also to do another interactive session in conjunction with International Women’s Day next year.

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dan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @danmarshall77