The North Central Missouri College athletic department is set to host a special evening of basketball and recognition on Monday, February 17, as the Lady Pirates take on Missouri Valley College JV at the Ketcham Community Center. The game will celebrate National Girls & Women in Sports Day, honoring female athletes past and present for their contributions to sports. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 PM.
The event will feature recognition of all NCMC female student-athletes, as well as women in attendance who have competed in competitive sports. In addition, local female athletes from the community will be acknowledged for their dedication and achievements in athletics.
In addition to recognizing area girls teams and TJC/NCMC women's teams, NCMC and the NCMC Foundation will also honor Nanetta "Nan" Carter for her significant contributions to supporting NCMC female student athletes. Nan Carter began her 32 year teaching career at Trenton Junior College and always remembered the college and the Trenton community fondly. In 1998, Mrs. Carter created the Warren and Nanetta Carter scholarship, which has since helped dozens of NCMC female student athletes achieve their higher education goals. Mrs. Carter passed away on December 30, 2023, but her generosity continues through a significant gift from her estate expanding support for NCMC female athletes.
To encourage participation and celebrate women in sports, free admission will be granted to any female athlete who wears their jersey to the game.
NCMC women's basketball head coach Jenni Croy had these comments about the event. "We are excited to celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day at our game on the 17th. Sports have obviously played a major role in my life and I love that I get the opportunity to offer girls the chance to fulfill a dream of playing at the college level. Women's sports continue to gain momentum and respect and it's awesome to see that happen in today's world. We've come a long way and I hope women's sports continue to grow!"
NCMC softball coach Sara VanDyke also had enthusiastic thoughts about the celebration. "Recognizing and empowering girls and women in sports every day is crucial but having a dedicated day to celebrate their achievements and progress is such a neat way to highlight the impact of those who came before us and to inspire future generations. Being around sports my entire life has truly shaped me and led me to the role I have today. I am grateful to be able to use my position to help young women grow and believe in themselves on and off the field!"
Fans are encouraged to come out and support the Lady Pirates while joining in on the celebration of National Girls & Women in Sports Day.