Nike released a new film entitled “Voices” to celebrate women in sport on the 40th anniversary of Title IX (June 23, 1972), the landmark U.S. legislation that opened the door for female athletes to pursue their dreams through sport.
The film features the personal stories of four amazing female athletes, spanning three generations, who play by their own rules: Joan Benoit Samuelson (legendary distance runner and first women’s marathon gold medalist in Los Angeles in 1984), Lisa Leslie (four-time gold medalist and WNBA pioneer), Marlen Esparza (USA Boxing’s 6-time national champion and member of the USA Women’s Boxing team) and Diana Taurasi (two-time gold medalist, guard for Phoenix Mercury and former WNBA MVP).
This clip of “Voices” made me cry. I did not what to expect when I clicked play, but I was moved by it and I can’t wait to watch the film today.
“Voices” reflects on some of the challenges these incredible athletes have faced on their journeys to greatness, and celebrates the passion, commitment and strength of female athletes everywhere to be the best at what they do. As the film progresses, the voices of these athletes are embraced by young girls who embody the spirit of women in sport of the future, adopting the same “play by your own rules” attitude that Lisa, Joan, Marlen and Diana exemplify. An attitude that will inspire the next generation of female athletes.
Nike has championed female athletes and worked to change the game for women in sports for over 40 years—inspiring and enabling female athletes of all levels to achieve their potential in both sport and life.
The film launches on Nike Women Facebook on June 23, 2012 and will run on ESPN and ABC Family on June 23, and on ESPN June 26. Viewers can participate in the conversation on Nike Women Facebook and Twitter via #MAKETHERULES.
SOURCE: NIKE, Inc.