When Girls Became Lions

Cover Type: Softcover
Book Condition: Very Good
Jacket Condition: None Issued
Publisher: Bookbaby
Publisher Place:
Publisher Year: 2015
Edition:

Description: 220 pages. Book is in Very good condition throughout.

Publishers Description: "The memory of a strong woman is a sanctuary . . . ." And so begins our story. Its 1983. Teacher Bailey Crawford and a bunch of rag tag girls are about to make history as their schools first, and only, state champions. But few in town care; theyre only girls, after all. Its not until twenty-five years later in 2008 when new coach Reynalda Wallace discovers their story and recognition for the champs finally arrives. In the process, Rey learns how much of her own lifepast and presentis bound to those first athletes whose struggle she never knew existed. Until now. --------------------- The novel moves between 1983 and 2008 as the two coaches stories progress, capturing the impact Title IX legislation had on one mid-western town. It is a unique literary contribution to both womens fiction and the ordinarily male-dominated sports genre as it celebrates womens friendships against the backdrop of sport history. It is a story for everyonefrom soccer dads and college coaches to professional athletes, high school competitors and the many women and men who support them. The incredible championship of the U.S.A. Womens Soccer Team at the June 2015 FIFA World Cup confirmed the sports popularity and the growing impact of women athletes as role models. When Girls Became Lions continues the celebration of both. What others are saying: "Absolutely love this great read about women in sports! Contemporary fiction with women athletes at the center of the narrative is long overdue." Julie Foudy, USA Soccer, ESPN "Finally, a novel about the beautiful game and the girls who just wanted a chance to play the worlds most favorite sport." Jo and Val penned a great story about the end results of many sacrifices and the true benefits of sportfun, competition, purpose, perseverance, teamwork, friendships and the love of the game." Amanda Cromwell, Head Womens Soccer Coach, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) "When Girls Became Lions is an inspiring novel that wonderfully depicts the triumphs and struggles of women in sports in spite of the overwhelming odds against them. I am so pleased that the authors have woven such a narrative into the fabric of this little discussed issue in America history."Dr. Brian Johnson, President, Tuskegee University "This novel illustrates the emotion of sport as it chronicles the journey of fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, grandparents, coaches, school administrators and student during the transition from pre-Title IX expectations to 20th century possibilities. Youll be inspired by the story!" Jean Driscoll, Eight-time winner of the Boston Marathon, U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame "I read a lot of fiction and am thrilled that Val and Jo have given us When Girls Became Lions, a story with women athletes at the heart. Ive looked for a novel like this for a long time to provide a window into the world of womens sports and Title IXs implications, especially to inspireand informour younger athletes. I cant wait to give a copy to my players and friends!" Jane Albright, Head Womens Basketball Coach, University of Nevada "The story that too often goes missing in todays athletic arena is that of the Title IX pioneers who made it possible for young women to compete...its characters are real and their experiences true, reminding us of the many women who endured so much because they just wanted to play their game. This novel is a winner for all of us." Sue Semrau, Head Womens Basketball Coach, Florida State University, Athletic Coast Coach of the Year and President of the WBCA

ISBN: 9781682221808