Should Women Be Allowed to Play on A Men’s Football Team?

Question

I saw this question pop up, yet again, on the news and it was a dilemma for our high school football team, as well and I honestly do not know how I feel about the decision. I should state that I am a female and a women’s right’s advocate ….

On one hand, I think that it is BS to say that someone cannot do something because that person is a woman - it pisses me off. For many sports, there is simply no good reason for not allowing us to play – when we do not have the alternative of a women’s team (like volleyball, track, basketball, baseball – non extreme contact sports).

On the other hand, however, there are some arguable circumstances, when something like a person's gender, has to be taken into account - or at least contemplated. For the most part, men are stronger (in bulk, weight and strength) than men. Not to mention, that football is a harsh, non-objective, full contact and possibly dangerous sport - for the men alone. Add a woman and the chances of injury simply does increase. There are, additionally, some emotional issues for the men to deal with, as well. Most are afraid and would be against, even if subconsciously, tackling a girl and others are a******s who -- for male pride or out of pure evil -- would try to break her into pieces every time. Either way, there would be a negative impact on their games.

Personally, I think there are enough women out there to form their own league. I played Woman's Rugby, in college, and there were plenty of people interested & I did not have to fear some giant, 200lb dude breaking my face.

Answer 1

I was in junior high school in the mid-90s and every year we had 2 or 3 girls on the team. It wasn't really a big deal to anyone. Our teams were really bad so no one really cared what we did. Some of the girls were actually pretty good and just as tough as anyone else.

Answer 2

Well if you want to try go ahead.  You can do anything you put your mind to.  However keep in mind that if you as a woman decide to play football, then you will have physical pain to deal with, but go ahead its your choice, and it is the choice of the coach to decide if you are ready.  Give it a try.  

Answer 3

"I did not have to fear some giant, 200lb dude breaking my face"

Uh there are guys that are like 300lbs that step onto the football field... 200lbs is light.

Answer 4

i'm fine with women playing sports. but i have a problem with moments in a game where the tackler would feel uncomfortable hitting a woman, this would give women an edge because they won't be hit as hard as the men.

Answer 5

if they can make it and they like to play then go for it. It reminds me of the girl that couldn't be kicker just because shes a girl. If there is a woman that ever cracks the NFL or any major league sports(NBA,MLB,NHL) she will have changed sports right as we know it and for the better too

Answer 6

"tackling a girl and others are a******s who -- for male pride or out of pure evil -- would try to break her into pieces every time."  lets get it strait toots men try to break other men into pieces every time.  Women just need to leave football alone, there is not one position a woman could play better than a man. Its not a womans sport. I dont know why feminists try and make everything into anargumentt. Men and women are different, face it.

they want equal rights but its still socially unacceptable for me to punch a woman in the face- such bull spit.

Answer 7

Like you said, I agree w/them having their own league when speaking of college or pro.  But I can assure you: no one would watch.  This is strictly for the women to have some fun.

Answer 8

One of the top high school programs in Illinois was approached by a woman years ago, wanting to play.  People thought the coach would say "no' because he was a lock for hall of fame, very traditional, etc. They didn't know that coach like I did. He welcomed her, and she became the first woman in Illinois High School football history to score.  People were fine with all the little things they had to overcome - separate dressing/showering areas, etc., and perhaps it was somewhat easier because she was a kicker, but she did the same cals, drills, etc. the guys did.  If you want to do it, and want it FOR THE RIGHT REASONS, then there is no reason you shouldn't visit the coach about it.  Likewise, if you can't legitimately contribute, and get cut - or should be cut - and don't try and make it an equal rights argument, then you have the right perspective - TEAM FIRST.

Answer 9

A women should be able to "tryout" for the team.  If she is good enough for the spot, off course she should be able to make and play for the team.  As for the opportunity to try out for the sport, it isn't up to the football team.  It's up to the school administration, and if they know what is good for them, they will not prevent anyone based on religion, gender, age, or race from at least trying.

However, I would be cautious.  This sport isn't for everyone.

The first day of tryouts every year I always saw several injuries.  It is a very tough, and physically demanding sport.  

By all means though try it out for yourself.  Escpecially if it is important to you, and since you are an "advocate of women rights".  Just don't believe in it, and expect someone else to do it.  Best of luck, and keep your chin down on the field.

Answer 10

i think they should, if they try out with the rest of the guys and are better than most, and can handle getting beaten up. but face it, not too many girls like to play football.