Magazine
The Magazine
Investigative, research-based articles and opinion pieces, in a monthly digital publication.
The Pathway Problem - Issue 01
Dollars and Cents, Sexism and Sense
For many young girls, the dream of becoming a professional athlete fades when they see the financial realities facing women in sports. This article examines how pay inequity, underfunding, and the devaluation of women’s professional leagues can discourage girls from pursuing athletics, arguing that a sustainable career path could help keep more girls in the game.
No One Cares. Play Harder.
After years of competitive field hockey, relentless pressure from a toxic coach and a fear of failure transformed a sport she once loved into a source of anxiety and self-doubt. Leaving her elite club team and returning to school field hockey taught her that success is not worth sacrificing your happiness, and that sometimes, walking away is how you find your love for the game again.
Side-Lined: The Hidden Crisis in Girls’ Athletics
Girls are leaving sports at significantly higher rates than boys, but the reasons extend beyond confidence or motivation. This article examines how unequal opportunities, gender stereotypes, limited resources, and a lack of support create systemic barriers that can push girls out of athletics, and argues that lasting change requires addressing these inequalities rather than placing the responsibility on girls themselves.
When the Love of Sport isn't Enough
A decade of competitive sport reveals a troubling pattern: too many girls are leaving sports before reaching the elite level, not because they lack talent, but because mounting pressure, appearance standards, and expectations can drain the joy from competition. This article explores how stronger support systems and healthier sporting environments can help girls stay in the sports they love.
The Porcelain Standard
A young tennis player’s love for the sport is shattered by hurtful comments about her skin and muscularity, forcing her to confront the beauty standards that shape how society views female athletes. Years later, watching a champion compete reignites her passion and reminds her that strength, confidence, and achievement matter far more than fitting into someone else’s definition of beauty.
Q&A Session with Dr. Morgan Smith
We are joined by Dr. Morgan Smith, a sport scientist and Senior Performance Coach with the Women’s Youth National Teams at the United States Soccer Federation, where she works behind the scenes with some of the country’s top rising talent. With a PhD and experience at Stanford University, she brings a research driven approach to helping athletes train smarter, stay healthy, and perform at their best.