Women’s sports are on the rise, and the Redbirds are ready to celebrate women athletes. Illinois State University has long been a pioneer in women’s athletics, from hosting “sports days” for women in the 1930s, to a thriving women’s physical education program in the 60s, to storied coach and administrator Jill Hutchison’s role in the passing of Title IX, and beyond.
National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) is a celebration of the achievements of athletes, coaches and administrators in the world of sports and acknowledges the power that athletics have to unlock potential for young girls. This year, Illinois State is celebrating NGWSD with an exclusive apparel line to honor the achievements of Redbird women athletes of the past, present, and future.
The apparel was designed by alumna and artist Liz Flores ‘12. In addition to her own work and murals, Flores has previously collaborated with sports organizations like the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bulls, along with athleisure brand Lululemon.
“This opportunity meant a lot to me. The theme and ethos around my work has always been celebrating the female body, the power of womanhood, and Latinidad,” Flores said. “When I was asked to create art around this day, I was honored. It felt like a perfect fit, and I really wanted to make the women who are celebrated during this time proud. I hope every woman feels celebrated with the work, and I’m grateful I had this opportunity.”
Flores’ work is deeply influenced by storytelling and the female body, as seen in her signature lines, shapes, and abstract figures. Flores felt strongly about using her work in this collaboration to convey and commemorate the meaning of National Girls and Women in Sports Day.
“For me this day is a celebration of the strength, power, and accomplishments women have achieved in sports.”
—Liz Flores ’12
“For me this day is a celebration of the strength, power, and accomplishments women have achieved in sports,” Flores said. “It’s important because it recognizes how far women have come in athletics, while also remembering that we have so much more to do to ensure equality for women in these areas.”
The apparel is available now in adult and youth sizes at both locations of the Redbird Spirit Shop on campus and online at RedbirdSpiritShop.com. Fans can continue the NGWSD celebration at the February 17 Redbird women’s basketball game at 4 p.m. against Valparaiso. Tickets are available online at GoRedbirds.com/Tickets.
