It has been some time since the closing ceremonies of the 2024 Paris Olympics, but the excitement and impact the games had have not waned. I’ve always loved the Olympics—both winter and summer—but this year was extra special. For the first time, we gathered as a family to cheer on the athletes, and my kids grasped the meaning behind the games.
The summer Olympics in Paris radiated themes of pride, hope, determination, and rising above challenges.
Those whirlwind weeks of competition showcased the reward for hard work, the importance of teamwork, and resilience in athletes from around the globe. However, what truly warmed my heart was the spotlight on incredible female athletes from the USA and beyond.
Most nights, our living room became a mini Olympic arena.
Yoga and gymnastics mats would be set around the room, and my girls would reenact all the events they saw on TV. We’d snuggle up, talk about each event and its participants, and cheer on our home team. It was the perfect way to introduce my kids to various sports, such as track and field, rugby, fencing, and one of their favorites, swimming and diving.
As a mom of three girls, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride and excitement as I watched the competition, more specifically the female competition, unfold.
While my daughters were enamored with gymnastics, beach volleyball, and track and field, I appreciated the opportunity for them to discover less familiar sports like fencing, surfing, rugby, and equestrian. Their faces lit up as they cheered for female competitors who exemplified strength and tenacity. It was empowering for them to see women performing at such a high level and receiving accolades and recognition worldwide.
Names like Ilona Maher, Tara Davis-Woodhall, and Jade Carey are now part of our household.
They are often recalled with enthusiastic retellings of their incredible feats, but they have also become integral roles in my girls’ imaginative play. When playing “Olympic gymnastics,” their names become Simone, Jade, and Jordan. When my oldest talks about growing stronger in her tennis and golf games, she compares herself to being strong like Ilona.
The pride in their voices and enthusiasm for pretending to be these athletes are beautiful reminders of the impact these athletes have on young girls everywhere. It’s not just about the medals; it’s about the dreams they inspire.
The emotional highs and lows of the games taught my daughters about perseverance. They witnessed the joy of victory and the heartbreak of defeat, learning that both are valuable parts of any journey.
Watching the Olympics this past summer felt different than all previous games I had the privilege of watching. I felt an overwhelming gratitude. My girls witnessed history in the making, and incredible role models inspired them. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and the incredible strides women are making in sports. I can’t help but feel gratitude for our family Olympic nights. They were filled with laughter, learning, and a renewed sense of pride in the achievements of female athletes everywhere!
