MORRISVILLE, N.Y. - National Girls and Women in Sports Day celebrates the impact sports have on the lives of women and girls—not just on the field, but far beyond it. For female student-athletes at SUNY Morrisville sports represent confidence, resilience, community and the belief that they belong in every space they step into.

For Kylie Hutchinson, a member of the volleyball program, the sport has shaped her into the woman she is today. What began as a game quickly became a source of purpose and identity.
"Volleyball has taught me confidence, resilience, leadership, and how to push myself both mentally and physically" Hutchinson said. "Beyond the game, what I value most are the bonds I build with my teammates."

These bonds, she explained, extend far past practices and matches. Volleyball has given her a sense of belonging and joy, along with lifelong relationships rooted in trust, support, and shared goals.
"These are the girls who celebrate my wins, lift me through challenges, and will one day stand by my side as my future bridesmaids." Hutchinson said. "Volleyball is so much more than a sport to me; it's where my happiest memories and lifelong connections are made."

For softball player Kendall Darling, being a female student-athlete is something she approaches with gratitude and pride. "I play for myself and the person the younger me would want me to be" Darling said. Representing her school means more than wearing a uniform, it's about honoring the person she's becoming.

While injuries have been her biggest challenge, Darling believes the rewards of playing far outweigh the setbacks. She encourages young girls to embrace the opportunity to compete.

"Playing sports is something you should cherish and be proud of" she said. "It gives you the best memories."

That message of pride and perseverance resonates strongly with ice hockey player Meadow Clarke. She views being a female student-athlete as one of her greatest accomplishments. Competing at the collegiate level not only built her confidence but also equipped her with lessons she carries into her everyday life.

"It is important to me to play for the younger girls and show them that females have opportunities to play sports beyond minor levels" Clarke said. "As a female athlete we face many struggles, but this doesn't make us weak or less of an athlete, it makes us strong being able to push through stereotypes and break barriers. Her message to young girls is simple: believe in what's possible.
"My biggest challenge was becoming an athlete again" Vaughn said. "Getting my body and mental right was tough, but worth it." Inspired by her cousin, the first female athlete she ever looked up to, Vaughn now plays for herself and the work she's put in. Her advice to younger girls is rooted in self-belief.

"Bet on yourself and keep trying" she said. "If there is something you really want, you must go get it because nobody is going to get it for you."

Field hockey's Kylee Noyes echoed the importance of belief and support, crediting her family as her biggest motivation.
As an only child, her parents became her training partners, biggest fans, and constant encouragement. "They believe in me, so I believe in myself because of them" Noyes said.

Noyes has faced challenges common among female athletes including a serious injury requiring a six-month recovery and stereotypes comparing women's and men's sports. Still, she believes those obstacles only strengthen the athlete, and person she has become. "Being a female student-athlete will give you things you never knew you needed. Your teammates become your family. You are not alone, and it's okay to ask for help."

For young girls watching from the sidelines, these athletes serve as proof that sports can open doors, create lifelong friendships, and teach lessons that last far beyond the game—if you believe in yourself and are willing to push for what you want.

As National Girls and Women in Sports Day highlights progress and possibility, the voices of these student-athletes serve as a reminder of why representation matters. Through competition, camaraderie, and courage, they are paving the way for the next generation, proving that sports are not just for girls, but are because of them.