Rose Lavelle, Leah Williams, and Other Women Athletes Demand Better Treatment of Female Athletes in Sports Councils Rose Lavelle, Leah Williams, and other renowned female athletes have taken a strong and united position against sports injustice, calling on governing bodies and sports councils to provide greater treatment, resources, and recognition to female athletes. Their message is clear: women’s sports should receive the same amount of funding, support, and respect as men’s.
Female athletes have long fought for equitable pay, better facilities, and equal promotional opportunities. While progress has been made in some areas, Lavelle, Williams, and others contend that many sports councils and federations continue to fall short in prioritising women’s athletics. “We’re not asking for special treatment,” said Rose Lavelle, a star of American women’s football. “We want the same opportunities, resources, and visibility that men’s sports receive. Women work just as hard, compete just as fiercely, and inspire just as many people, but we are consistently given less.
Leah Williams, a rising talent in women’s basketball, shared same comments, pointing out the significant disparities in funding, sponsorships, and scheduling. “The excuses are always the same: lack of revenue, limited audience, or tradition. However, if you don’t invest in anything, it will not expand. Men’s sports were developed over decades with significant investment. Women’s sports deserve an equal chance.”
These athletes have expressed serious concerns about disparities in facilities, training conditions, and marketing initiatives. While men’s teams frequently receive top-tier training facilities, charter planes, and extensive commercial efforts, women’s teams continue to suffer with obsolete equipment, lengthy travel schedules, and little media attention. Sports councils are criticised for not only their money but also their decision-making power. Many governing organisations lack female leadership, making it difficult to address women’s sports issues effectively.
“We need more women in leadership positions,” Williams said. “It’s time to have decision-makers who actually understand and advocate for the needs of female athletes.” As Lavelle, Williams, and other athletes continue to advocate for change, their message gains traction. Fans, businesses, and even some sports organisations have begun to respond, but the fight has not ended.
“Women’s sports are not an afterthought,” Lavelle stated. “We are here to stay, and it’s time for the world to give us the respect we deserve.”