Revolutionizing Olympic Sports Kit for Women: How a Boozy Night in Birmingham Sparked Change

A boozy night in Birmingham sparked a revolution in Olympic sports kit for women, thanks to Team GB’s Tess Howard. Research has shown that many women and girls stop playing sports due to issues with clothing, prompting Howard to campaign for change in the field of female hockey attire.

The pivotal moment came after Team England won gold at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, celebrating their victory with a few drinks at the Team England bar. It was there that Lou Pullan, Kit Operations Specialist, pledged to be part of Howard’s mission to change hockey forever.

With the support of her team-mates and partners like Mizuno and Grays, Howard has successfully implemented a new policy allowing female hockey players to choose between shorts and traditional ‘skorts’. This change has been well-received, especially at Howard’s local club, Marlow, where young girls are starting to take agency and make choices for themselves.

Howard’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she was crowned with the Changemaker Award at last year’s Sunday Times Sportswomen of the Year. She believes that empowering women to make choices for themselves is crucial in elevating consciousness and promoting inclusivity in sports.

The impact of wearing shorts on the pitch has been significant for Howard, who feels freer and more confident in her performances. She attributes her improved gameplay to the comfort and freedom provided by shorts, which have allowed her to excel and achieve milestones like scoring her first hat-trick.

Overall, Howard’s campaign for change in sports kit for women has not only transformed the field of hockey attire but has also inspired other countries to follow suit. By breaking free from traditional norms and providing options for female athletes, Howard hopes to see a global impact on inclusivity and empowerment in sports.