Based on the response I received from one of my readers, it seems as though it's agreed that women do not need their own separate medium to be able to talk and read sports.
"I agree! Women should not have to read about sports from different media outlets than men. We all know how to read, why should there be a difference?" said University of Cincinnati senior Samantha Foltz.
I feel like this will be a topic that will not only exist for a while, but will become more serious as these outlets gain more attention on a nationwide level. But we have to remember their purpose here. Although it seems as though we have to make separate outlets to be able to write, we make them to promote a group of strong and intelligent women, and to prove that there are plenty of people capable of providing sports news other than men. It's strength in numbers. I have been given an opportunity with G9Sports that may not have been given to me by many mainstream sports media, although this is on a much smaller scale.
You have read my rants and raves this quarter on Empty-netters, ERA, and Estrogen about where women fit in the sports industry and how they can achieve the levels of success that are currently mostly held by men. So I leave you with a few questions; if you are man in this industry, or even if you're not in the industry, what can you do to make this a more level playing field? What actions can be taken to help the cause? I believe men must make just as much up a conscious effort as women, since they are seen as the oppressors in this situation. As a woman, what can we do to help ourselves? Is it a matter of appearance, a matter of knowledge, or a matter of standing up for ourselves and letting the world know we're here? Put yourself in the situation of a woman discriminated against for wanting to do something she knows she is just as capable of doing, as she watches a man do it instead. What would you do?
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Allow me to reintroduce myself...
As I mentioned in my last post, I've begun blogging about the Reds at G9Sports.com. I have my first introductory post up, and it would mean so much to me if you all would follow along as I start this new chapter of my writing career!
www.g9sports.com/c-ing-red/
Thanks so much!
www.g9sports.com/c-ing-red/
Thanks so much!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
What if...
... there was a sports media outlet done by women, for women? Am I getting ahead of myself? Not at all, because there is one!
Last fall ESPN's research found that men account for 76% of their viewership. The only programs ESPN airs that tend to attract women are The National Spelling Bee, cheerleading championships, and Wimbledon.
"Women see us as an admirable brand that has authority. But they see us as their father's brand, or husband's brand, or boyfriend's brand. They recognize it's not theirs," said ESPN vice president Laura Gentile.
The plan was to launch a blog written entirely by women, and should it make a splash, it could become its own television channel. I am very privileged to say that I know a few of the women who write for espnW. They are incredibly intelligent and strong women that know just as much if not more about the sports they cover than any man I've ever met.
To promote the idea, espnW held a retreat last fall in southern California. Prominent female athletes such as Jennie Finch and Marion Jones attended, and the retreat helped to generate ideas for the site. The retreat also focused on empowering women with motivation speeches and physical activities. The video below is an inside view of what went on at the retreat.
You can go to espnW.com for yourself, and see what these women have done. It's pretty powerful, and if it amounts to what the creators are anticipating, it could be mainstream in the near future. This new blog site has given many well-educated and well-versed women the opportunity that many places have not. They're not a pretty face on the sideline, or the NFL's "weather girl." They are providing sports analysis and recaps that you would read in Sunday's newspaper.
On February 1st, another site very similar to espnW was launched; G9Sports.com. Julie DiCaro, a Cubs blogger at "A League of Her Own," joined Twitter over a year and a half ago and found many women like herself that received no accolades for the work they did in covering their favorite teams. Though some were professionals, many wrote for small publications or on their own blogs in "obscurity." These women even worked full-time jobs and still managed to find the time to blog about sports solely for their love of the game. The site's namesake is simply a "G" for girls, and "9" from Title IX.
Although the site is extremely new, and there are not writers for all teams yet, the goal is to have a website written entirely by women on every sport and every team. I am very proud to say that I am a part of this community and their resident Cincinnati Reds writer and contributor.
These developments place female sports writers on an easily accessible medium, and can be seen on a much larger scale than if they were to embark on a blogging journey on their own. While it seems like a beautiful and positive thing, many feminists and professionals will argue that it hinders as much as it helps. In the quest for equality for women in the sports industry, the ultimate goal is to be considered on a level playing field with men. By creating sites by women, for women, it has been said that they are segregating or "ghettoizing" female sports writers. It is a valid point, because I know just as much as anyone else, I can go to ESPN.com, pick up a Sports Illustrated, or flip through the sports section of the newspaper to read and comprehend the exact same stories men do. Women do not NEED to have their own version of these already established sports powerhouses to be active viewers and readers in the sports community.
Aside from considering the segregation ideas, we have to face the facts that mainstream sports media does not provide the same opportunities to women. They are predominantly written by men. What better thing to do than launch your own site to show the world and the community that there are all of these women that break the stereotype and be every bit as valuable in sports coverage as men?
I'm really anxious to hear all of your thoughts on the subject!
Last fall ESPN's research found that men account for 76% of their viewership. The only programs ESPN airs that tend to attract women are The National Spelling Bee, cheerleading championships, and Wimbledon.
"Women see us as an admirable brand that has authority. But they see us as their father's brand, or husband's brand, or boyfriend's brand. They recognize it's not theirs," said ESPN vice president Laura Gentile.
The plan was to launch a blog written entirely by women, and should it make a splash, it could become its own television channel. I am very privileged to say that I know a few of the women who write for espnW. They are incredibly intelligent and strong women that know just as much if not more about the sports they cover than any man I've ever met.
To promote the idea, espnW held a retreat last fall in southern California. Prominent female athletes such as Jennie Finch and Marion Jones attended, and the retreat helped to generate ideas for the site. The retreat also focused on empowering women with motivation speeches and physical activities. The video below is an inside view of what went on at the retreat.
You can go to espnW.com for yourself, and see what these women have done. It's pretty powerful, and if it amounts to what the creators are anticipating, it could be mainstream in the near future. This new blog site has given many well-educated and well-versed women the opportunity that many places have not. They're not a pretty face on the sideline, or the NFL's "weather girl." They are providing sports analysis and recaps that you would read in Sunday's newspaper.
On February 1st, another site very similar to espnW was launched; G9Sports.com. Julie DiCaro, a Cubs blogger at "A League of Her Own," joined Twitter over a year and a half ago and found many women like herself that received no accolades for the work they did in covering their favorite teams. Though some were professionals, many wrote for small publications or on their own blogs in "obscurity." These women even worked full-time jobs and still managed to find the time to blog about sports solely for their love of the game. The site's namesake is simply a "G" for girls, and "9" from Title IX.
Although the site is extremely new, and there are not writers for all teams yet, the goal is to have a website written entirely by women on every sport and every team. I am very proud to say that I am a part of this community and their resident Cincinnati Reds writer and contributor.
These developments place female sports writers on an easily accessible medium, and can be seen on a much larger scale than if they were to embark on a blogging journey on their own. While it seems like a beautiful and positive thing, many feminists and professionals will argue that it hinders as much as it helps. In the quest for equality for women in the sports industry, the ultimate goal is to be considered on a level playing field with men. By creating sites by women, for women, it has been said that they are segregating or "ghettoizing" female sports writers. It is a valid point, because I know just as much as anyone else, I can go to ESPN.com, pick up a Sports Illustrated, or flip through the sports section of the newspaper to read and comprehend the exact same stories men do. Women do not NEED to have their own version of these already established sports powerhouses to be active viewers and readers in the sports community.
Aside from considering the segregation ideas, we have to face the facts that mainstream sports media does not provide the same opportunities to women. They are predominantly written by men. What better thing to do than launch your own site to show the world and the community that there are all of these women that break the stereotype and be every bit as valuable in sports coverage as men?
I'm really anxious to hear all of your thoughts on the subject!
Who's At Fault?
Based on the responses I received from the Ines Sainz story, it looks like both parties are to blame here. We have a journalist being absolutely careless about her appearance, or depending on how you look at it, putting plenty of thought into her outfit, to sensationalize a tender subject; to women in the sports industry. We also have professional athletes showing no respect toward women, or keeping in mind that she is a journalist, and whatever they say could end up in the media.
"What she wears should not get her harassed. With that said, she knew what she was doing. She's trying to be the story instead of telling the story which is exactly what's wrong with media coverage today, especially in sports whether it be a man or woman," said Garrett Sabelhaus.
I couldn't agree with him more. This is an issue that spans the entire sports industry. It's about staying in the spotlight and being the story in the media, rather than journalists supplying the story, which is what their job entails.
"I personally think Sainz has definitely knowingly used her body and looks to advance her career. However, the Jets players needed to realize who they were dealing with: a journalist. What you say and do around her is going to get out there — that's her job." - Sam Elliott
"The players need to realize that they were speaking to a journalist and what her job entails. On the other hand, I think a journalist should dress in a "professional" manner." - discoverucpa
Both of the statements agree with the idea that the athletes need to monitor the things that they say. Whether they be flirting, talking about opponents, or anything else, it must be remembered that they are in the presence of a broadcast journalist, and anything they say can be used, whether it be helpful or harmful.
Discoverucpa also makes another great point. We know that Sainz is using her appearance to make the story, but she should have to dress appropriately for a job. I cannot imagine that anyone would wear her outfit of choice to a job interview, and many other places that would be considered a work atmosphere. If she is this concerned about how athletes will respond, she needs to closely manage her appearance.
"It's too bad some "bad apples" have to go and ruin it for everyone (in terms of what Garrett said about being the story as opposed to covering a story)." - Adam
The "bad apples" are what make being a woman in a male-dominated industry so hard. It's difficult to get your foot in the door. When you get that opportunity, you have to give everything you have to not only maintain what you've been given, but to try and earn a spot higher in the ranks. Because it is so rare for women to get the opportunity to be journalists in the public eye, one bad incident can ruin it for everyone. If one sensationalized story like this causes so many issues, it would cause employers to think twice before they hire a woman. It puts the idea in their heads that they could end up in a similar situation if they do so.
"You're right, the whole situation seems fishy. But when it comes to matters of sexual harassment, allegations must be taken seriously. That being said, I think that the way in which an individual dresses and presents themselves should be in accord with the way they expect to be treated. As Gin says, dress professionally. I realize that the sports world isn't a conventional working environment, but that doesn't mean you have free reign to conduct yourself in an inappropriate manner," said Sydney Benter.
Every aspect of this story had to be taken into consideration. The athletes were acting inappropriately, Sainz herself was acting inappropriately, and whether she was harassed or not, her allegations cannot be ignored. When piling it all together, it's a mess of information, but if all parties are more responsible for their actions, or even think about the repercussions before acting out, many of these issues can be prevented.
"What she wears should not get her harassed. With that said, she knew what she was doing. She's trying to be the story instead of telling the story which is exactly what's wrong with media coverage today, especially in sports whether it be a man or woman," said Garrett Sabelhaus.
I couldn't agree with him more. This is an issue that spans the entire sports industry. It's about staying in the spotlight and being the story in the media, rather than journalists supplying the story, which is what their job entails.
"I personally think Sainz has definitely knowingly used her body and looks to advance her career. However, the Jets players needed to realize who they were dealing with: a journalist. What you say and do around her is going to get out there — that's her job." - Sam Elliott
"The players need to realize that they were speaking to a journalist and what her job entails. On the other hand, I think a journalist should dress in a "professional" manner." - discoverucpa
Both of the statements agree with the idea that the athletes need to monitor the things that they say. Whether they be flirting, talking about opponents, or anything else, it must be remembered that they are in the presence of a broadcast journalist, and anything they say can be used, whether it be helpful or harmful.
Discoverucpa also makes another great point. We know that Sainz is using her appearance to make the story, but she should have to dress appropriately for a job. I cannot imagine that anyone would wear her outfit of choice to a job interview, and many other places that would be considered a work atmosphere. If she is this concerned about how athletes will respond, she needs to closely manage her appearance.
"It's too bad some "bad apples" have to go and ruin it for everyone (in terms of what Garrett said about being the story as opposed to covering a story)." - Adam
The "bad apples" are what make being a woman in a male-dominated industry so hard. It's difficult to get your foot in the door. When you get that opportunity, you have to give everything you have to not only maintain what you've been given, but to try and earn a spot higher in the ranks. Because it is so rare for women to get the opportunity to be journalists in the public eye, one bad incident can ruin it for everyone. If one sensationalized story like this causes so many issues, it would cause employers to think twice before they hire a woman. It puts the idea in their heads that they could end up in a similar situation if they do so.
"You're right, the whole situation seems fishy. But when it comes to matters of sexual harassment, allegations must be taken seriously. That being said, I think that the way in which an individual dresses and presents themselves should be in accord with the way they expect to be treated. As Gin says, dress professionally. I realize that the sports world isn't a conventional working environment, but that doesn't mean you have free reign to conduct yourself in an inappropriate manner," said Sydney Benter.
Every aspect of this story had to be taken into consideration. The athletes were acting inappropriately, Sainz herself was acting inappropriately, and whether she was harassed or not, her allegations cannot be ignored. When piling it all together, it's a mess of information, but if all parties are more responsible for their actions, or even think about the repercussions before acting out, many of these issues can be prevented.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
The Ines Sainz Story
If you watch ESPN, or any news network for that matter this past summer, I'm sure you heard a little bit about Ines Sainz and the New York Jets. In case you didn't, or you need a refresher, here's some background information.
Ines Sainz Gallo de Perez is a journalist for TV Azteca/Azteca America, and hosts the sports interview program "DxTips." She and her husband own the production company that developed the show. Sainz has never been what you would describe as "modest." Photos of her in a swimsuit were featured on TV Azteca's website and in their "Bad Girls" section. She has appeared on the covers of Maxim and Esquire, and was chosen by FHM as the fifth sexiest sports reporter in the world in 2009.
Controversy is nothing new in the world of Ines Sainz. Her site hosts plenty of suggestive photographs (check link at bottom of story for her Myspace page), she's a former Miss Universe candidate, and she lost her contract as a spokesperson for a Mexican bank after the media incident with the Jets. Now for the big guns.
One Saturday late in 2010, Sainz went to the Jets camp to get an interview with quarterback Mark Sanchez. To make a long story short, Sainz claims the players used passing drills as opportunities to flirt with her, used cat calls, and was "sexually harassed" while she waited for Sanchez in the locker room. The Jets were pursued, complaints were made, and Sainz seemed very upset. But by just the next Sunday, her story had changed. She was less upset than she ahd claimed to be the previous day, and mentioned that she thought the players were just joking around and playing games. If she thought it was all fun and games, then why pursue the organization for harassment? Sainz also claimed to be modestly dressed in a white blouse and jeans. (See photo). I don't know who would consider that modest, but I sure don't. That description should be altered to say skin-tight jeans and a small white blouse.
These are the situations in which women hold themselves back in the sports industry. Does she know most of her success comes from the way she look and not her sports knowledge? Probably. Does she use it to get ahead in her career? Most likely. Was she aware of the attention she would receive for the outfit, and was it done on purpose? I believe so. Does she know how to create controversy? Absolutely. It's incidents like this that give honest, hardworking people a bad name. These things aren't easily forgotten. The response from the event, however, angered me more than the incident itself, and this is where I must come to her rescue.
As a woman, in relation to the industry or not, your attire is no license to commit sexual harassment. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission points out that sexual harassment is essentially blind, no matter how seductive someone appears. It solely focuses on the content and harshness of the harassment. The people who seem to find nothing wrong in this situation clearly aren't living by the principle that harassment is blind.
There were men all across the internet, and men I spoke to in person that said she knew what she was doing, and if she didn't want to be hit on she shouldn't have worn that outfit. Even worse, I heard that if she didn't want to be hit on, she shouldn't be in the sports industry which is teeming with men. I cannot believe that in 2010 and in 2011, people are forewarning women when it comes to career choices because of things men do. "It's boys being boys" they say. There is no such thing as "she asked for it." There is nothing that gives a warrant for men to be pigs. Period.
One former Pittsburgh Steeler, in an interview, made a statement that she's in a locker room and should expect to be hit on. In addition, she's a woman in a locker room with men walking around with their penises out so she's bound to be attracted to someone. ...what? Not only does her being in a locker room give men the right to harass her, she now is automatically attracted to any naked male when she sees his genitalia. Try again.
The entire story is fishy, but whether created for controversy or not, the issue still remains that it is not OK for any woman, no matter what she chooses to wear, to be the subject of sexual harassment; on the street, in the office, or on the sideline. I'd definitely like to hear your take on the story!
For updates on what Ms. Sainz has been up to:
Ines Sainz has spoken out to say that she doesn't want to be in locker rooms again: http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/feed/2010-09/jets-reporter/story/ines-sainz-says-she-wants-out-of-nfl-locker-rooms
Ines Sainz grabs attention at the Super Bowl XLV Media Day: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/02/01/ines-sainz-media-day-super-bowl_n_817265.html
Myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/inessainz
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Survey says...
Recently, I noticed I wasn't getting positive feedback from everyone, which is expected. It's a blog and you can't expect everyone to be nice to you. One comment in particular, left on both my blog and Tiffany George's blog suggested that no matter what a woman does or says, a man will ignore what she has to say when he's in a room with his friends, unless he's faking interest or she's an attractive person. I didn't find any validity in this statement, but it's not up to me. This is something clearly believed by people, and I thought it would be an interesting experiment to crowdsource based on "typical stereotypes" and see what the general public had to say.
On a Thursday a few weeks ago, I put out on Twitter that I would be asking a series of questions, intended for men only, and asked for their thoughts on the subject matter. I was not expecting the responses I received, and many of them backed my gut feeling that this was false. Below are the questions I asked, and the answers I received. Some questions were pulled directly from comments I received, and others came from statements I have heard from other sports fans. What better way to find out what the real assumption is than polling the people?
I would definitely like to know your opinion on the things stated. There's a lot of material here, but each raises a great point.
Question 1
As a man, are you generally interested in what a woman has to say about sports?
@dmoody46 - Regardless of gender, the first thing that comes out of a person's mouth will usually determine my interest of what the person has to say. Personally, talking to women about sports seems to be less of a headache to me than talking to men. Most of the time, men always have to be right and it turns into a testosterone match. Women, on the other hand, will debate but won't cause your head to explode either.
@loubezjakfmn - if she is passionate and knows her stuff about sports then yes makes for great conversation
@NYSportzNut - yes as women can bring a different perspective about sports related issues.
@dcplaya - Yes as long as they are knowledgeable enough to understand the sport or are willing to become knowledgeable
@smo513 - As a sports fan, and a man, I am interested in what anyone has to say about sports AS LONG AS they know what they are talking about, or are trying to learn something. I don't like listening to people talk about sports who don't know what they are saying or have horribly wrong information, man or woman. I give everyone the benefit of the doubt initially, until they say something stupid that allows me to form an opinion of their knowledge.
@mcmcglynn - Yes I love talking about sports to women. They have great passion about the sports they follow.
@micahsussman - yes, I value any opinion on sports as long as it is based in fact
@reddy_dean - I do care about what a girl has to say about sports, because stereotyping is generally very bad.
@TheHappyRecap - Very interested!, there's been so much repetetive drivel from the boys club these past decades, it's nice to hear new voices.
@BrandonFlorkey - I'd say yes. I started following you based off your opinions on different sports-based hashtags.
@asloan23 - Yeah I'm interested in what a woman has to say. Just to see if they have a different take on things or different perspective
@onbasemachine - I LOVE women that like sports, especially baseball. This girl I was talking to was a baseball fan.... And I loved discussing baseball with her. Male or female, I'll talk sports with anyone.
@redsfan1966 - I am usually interested in ANYONE's opinion on sports...
@jasonhickey - I'm interested in what intelligent sports fans have to say. It doesn't matter what sex you are, just as long as you're not a lout about it.
@jmillender – Absolutely. As long as she has informed questions and knows what she is talking about
@UC_SID - I am, especially if they're knowledgeable about sports. Women often bring a diff. POV and perspective ... Also, women tend to be more passionate and know more about the game itself & not just a fan. Most men are just fans. Women are fans but most can give legit reasons why
@VBH126 - yes as long as it's a somewhat informed opinion. totally different perspective on most issues than guys (obviously)
@metstwerp - It depends on how much she knows about the sport. But I wouldnt care what a guy said about a sport either if I knew he didnt know what he was talking about. If I know a person is knowledgable on the subject being discussed, I dont care what sex they are. This pretty much goes for any subject, not just sports.
@thedodgerhater - It of course depends on what sport she is talking about. For instance, I wouldn't really care if a man OR woman was talking about UConn ladies hoops. But yeah, I find it's so rare to find women that talk about sports at an in-depth level, so when I do come across such a woman/discussion, I'm definitely interested in what they have to say. Part of it is intrigue and part of it is admiration. A lot of guys find it very attractive. The other part of the male sports fan population is threatened by it and will try to shoot them down because of a self-conscious intimidation factor.
By the same token, if a girl is saying things that are either unfounded or incorrect about certain sports topics, it would almost be better if they didn't try, because I personally would be bothered by it, just as if a man were as ill-informed.
Question 2
True or false: If you’re with your friends you are not interested in what a woman says about sports unless she’s hot. Why?
@metstwerp - Its a macho thing. Guy needs to act like "aww, she's just a chick, what does she know". Meanwhile one of two things is going on. Either he is interested in what she says but doesnt want to show it, or is intimidated that she knows more than he does. I think most guys will "fake" interest if she is hot, but that has nothing to do with being with friends. Thats just a guy wanting to get laid. That "fake" interest may actually be real though as per previous statement. Did any of this make sense?
@dmoody46 - For me, this is false. If you and I were out somewhere and you brought up something to prove me wrong and someone told me that I was put in my place by a girl, I would tell them that they're right and carry on with my life. If someone knows something that I don't and it's brought to my attention, so be it. Intelligence is a bigger platform for me when it comes to talking about sports than gender and sex appeal.
@thedodgerhater - For the most part, when a dude is out with his friends, his main goal is to get phone numbers, etc. The same guys that are interested in what women have to say about sports alone/sober, are the same guys who would care about what they have to say no matter the scenario.
Sleazy dudes always feign interest in what girls have to say about any topic... which is why they are sleazes.
@smo513 - Sometimes true, sometimes false (probably not the answer you were looking for). Many times, when guys are watching sports with their guy friends, a woman's interruption doesn't usually go over well and isn't usually taken seriously. However, if a woman says something that is insightful, then the guys may form a different opinion about her and welcome her in future conversations. I have seen this happen quite often.
@jmillender - For me, false. As long as she knows what she is talking about. Looks have NO bearing (although good looking girls who know sports is cool). I have often had better sports conversations with females than some males. I think our generation is moving past the "females don't know or belong in sports" mentality, although I think some females sportscasters are hired for there looks and not what they know.
@reddy_dean - Not true for me, but there are a lot of shallow people out there so I'll say True, I guess.
@micahsussman - True (mostly) Guys have to seem macho, and unless the girl has a VAST knowledge of sports, the guy thinks he knows more
@redsfan1966 - unfortunately that statement is typically true...
@dcplaya - Usually true, doesnt want to seem inferior in front of his guy friends about sports. Also doesnt want to get shown up by girl
@soulsesdents - You might be hanging with the wrong guys. I can appreciate when a woman shows knowledge about sports. Seems no different.
@NYSportsNut - false...as long as she comes across as knowledgeable.
@UC_SID - For me, that's false. Only time I don't want to hear what a woman has to say about sports is when SHE'S faking it ... honestly I'd rather talk sports w/ a woman because w/ men it usually ends up being a shouting match of "your team sucks"
@asloan23 – false
@vbh126 - if she knows her shit, i'm interested. most don't (which is not a knock, just fact from my experience). bonus pts if hot tho
@redsfan1966 - The guys probably feel "threatened" or "weak" if a female appears to know more or the same about sports..the hot thing..welll
@mnmcglynn - false. if she knows her stuff guys love that . nothing worst then girls who thinks all sports are stupid.
Question 3
Do you know any women that know more about sports than you or have taught you something you didn’t know? Is this intimidating?
@metstwerp - You know more than me on more than one topic, especially when it comes to current teams and players. This does not bother me in the least. My female friend was a sports writer for a couple of years, so it certainly wouldnt bother me if I found out she knew more than I did on a particular topic. I would be no more bothered to know you know more than me on a subject than if it was a guy.
@smo513 - Yes, I know several women that know more about certain sports than I do. I don't think it is intimidating at all, because I am always willing to learn new things about sports that I don't know much about, so if someone wants to share some knowledge, I'm always willing to listen. On many occasions, I have asked women questions about particular sports.
@jmillender - I have not met one but would not find it intimidating.
@dmoody46 - I do know women that know more than me or have taught me something that I didn't know, but it typically does not intimidate me. For example, when it comes to talking about the Mets, Islanders, or other teams that my girlfriend follows more than me, I don't try to be all macho and act like I know what I'm talking about because I don't. I use it as a chance to learn, not a chance to prove that I have testicles.
@thedodgerhater - I do have some female friends I've met through Twitter that know a ton about Minor League Baseball-- especially the Giants farm system. It's rare that I run out of things to say about a topic, because I pride myself in being able to have at least a basic conversation about everything from the Blue Jackets to the Daytona 500, but it is a little strange at first to not know as much as someone on a topic, whether it is a man or woman.
Personally, I'm one of the guys (who may be in the minority) that find sports knowledge by women extremely attractive, and although not exactly a concrete prerequisite for some sort of relationship, it's definitely a considerable factor.
@UC_SID - yes I do, and know it's not. Of course, I'm always willing to learn from those who know more than myself
@asloan23 - Yeah Andrea knows more about hockey than I do and no it isn't intimidating
@NYSportzNut - outside of twitter, I do not know many women who are as into sports as I am... I can have great sports convos with many of my female followers on twitter though and its not intimidating at all.
@redsfan1966 - Yes....I guess it is slightly "emasculating"...
@tonester5 - I actually know one that is very close in knowledge. not intimidating - more attracting.
@reddy_dean - Yes, women have told me something related to sports that I didn't already know. No, it wasn't intimidating.
@michasussman – Yes on both accounts. It can be intimidating, but its more exciting as it gives us something more to talk about.
@philhensel - you know much more about hockey than most ppl (including me) I know do. No I'm not intimidated
@tinosorambler - I've never met a woman who knows more about sports in general than me, but I have met a couple with better specific knowledge
@mnmcglynn - I know tons about all kinds of sports but I often meet women who know more about one sport then me. Baseball the most.
@aka_elvis - again depends on the woman...but then again I've been just as many clueless men as women so it is what it is...
@jmillender - Doesn't matter as long as the person saying it is credible.
Question 4
If you read or hear a valid statement about sports, does it make a difference to you or change your perception if it is said by a man or woman?
@metstwerp - No. Information is information. I dont care how I get it.
@soulesdents – not at all
@redsfan1966 – no
@UC_SID - no not really. It'd affect my opinion of the person but not because of their gender
@micahsussman - um no, valid statements are valid for a reason
@philhensel - problem is most sideline reporters (primarily female) rarely say anything valid. Always ask same? What are u gonna do in 2nd
@tonester5 - Does not change my perception, man or woman.
@reddy_dean - No, it doesn't matter. Men and women alike can be fools.
@dcplaya - Not at all. If the statement is valid or meaningful, who cares what gender it came from.
@mnmcglynn - it depends on the subject but for the most part no...there are some items in sports that are gender specific.
@dmoody46 - No. Validity trumps gender every day and twice on Sundays
I must say I wasn't expecting this big of a response. It was interesting though to find so many people that, for the most part, believed these statements to be untrue. What are your thoughts? Do you agree with these faithful tweeters?
On a Thursday a few weeks ago, I put out on Twitter that I would be asking a series of questions, intended for men only, and asked for their thoughts on the subject matter. I was not expecting the responses I received, and many of them backed my gut feeling that this was false. Below are the questions I asked, and the answers I received. Some questions were pulled directly from comments I received, and others came from statements I have heard from other sports fans. What better way to find out what the real assumption is than polling the people?
I would definitely like to know your opinion on the things stated. There's a lot of material here, but each raises a great point.
Question 1
As a man, are you generally interested in what a woman has to say about sports?
@dmoody46 - Regardless of gender, the first thing that comes out of a person's mouth will usually determine my interest of what the person has to say. Personally, talking to women about sports seems to be less of a headache to me than talking to men. Most of the time, men always have to be right and it turns into a testosterone match. Women, on the other hand, will debate but won't cause your head to explode either.
@loubezjakfmn - if she is passionate and knows her stuff about sports then yes makes for great conversation
@NYSportzNut - yes as women can bring a different perspective about sports related issues.
@dcplaya - Yes as long as they are knowledgeable enough to understand the sport or are willing to become knowledgeable
@smo513 - As a sports fan, and a man, I am interested in what anyone has to say about sports AS LONG AS they know what they are talking about, or are trying to learn something. I don't like listening to people talk about sports who don't know what they are saying or have horribly wrong information, man or woman. I give everyone the benefit of the doubt initially, until they say something stupid that allows me to form an opinion of their knowledge.
@mcmcglynn - Yes I love talking about sports to women. They have great passion about the sports they follow.
@micahsussman - yes, I value any opinion on sports as long as it is based in fact
@reddy_dean - I do care about what a girl has to say about sports, because stereotyping is generally very bad.
@TheHappyRecap - Very interested!, there's been so much repetetive drivel from the boys club these past decades, it's nice to hear new voices.
@BrandonFlorkey - I'd say yes. I started following you based off your opinions on different sports-based hashtags.
@asloan23 - Yeah I'm interested in what a woman has to say. Just to see if they have a different take on things or different perspective
@onbasemachine - I LOVE women that like sports, especially baseball. This girl I was talking to was a baseball fan.... And I loved discussing baseball with her. Male or female, I'll talk sports with anyone.
@redsfan1966 - I am usually interested in ANYONE's opinion on sports...
@jasonhickey - I'm interested in what intelligent sports fans have to say. It doesn't matter what sex you are, just as long as you're not a lout about it.
@jmillender – Absolutely. As long as she has informed questions and knows what she is talking about
@UC_SID - I am, especially if they're knowledgeable about sports. Women often bring a diff. POV and perspective ... Also, women tend to be more passionate and know more about the game itself & not just a fan. Most men are just fans. Women are fans but most can give legit reasons why
@VBH126 - yes as long as it's a somewhat informed opinion. totally different perspective on most issues than guys (obviously)
@metstwerp - It depends on how much she knows about the sport. But I wouldnt care what a guy said about a sport either if I knew he didnt know what he was talking about. If I know a person is knowledgable on the subject being discussed, I dont care what sex they are. This pretty much goes for any subject, not just sports.
@thedodgerhater - It of course depends on what sport she is talking about. For instance, I wouldn't really care if a man OR woman was talking about UConn ladies hoops. But yeah, I find it's so rare to find women that talk about sports at an in-depth level, so when I do come across such a woman/discussion, I'm definitely interested in what they have to say. Part of it is intrigue and part of it is admiration. A lot of guys find it very attractive. The other part of the male sports fan population is threatened by it and will try to shoot them down because of a self-conscious intimidation factor.
By the same token, if a girl is saying things that are either unfounded or incorrect about certain sports topics, it would almost be better if they didn't try, because I personally would be bothered by it, just as if a man were as ill-informed.
Question 2
True or false: If you’re with your friends you are not interested in what a woman says about sports unless she’s hot. Why?
@metstwerp - Its a macho thing. Guy needs to act like "aww, she's just a chick, what does she know". Meanwhile one of two things is going on. Either he is interested in what she says but doesnt want to show it, or is intimidated that she knows more than he does. I think most guys will "fake" interest if she is hot, but that has nothing to do with being with friends. Thats just a guy wanting to get laid. That "fake" interest may actually be real though as per previous statement. Did any of this make sense?
@dmoody46 - For me, this is false. If you and I were out somewhere and you brought up something to prove me wrong and someone told me that I was put in my place by a girl, I would tell them that they're right and carry on with my life. If someone knows something that I don't and it's brought to my attention, so be it. Intelligence is a bigger platform for me when it comes to talking about sports than gender and sex appeal.
@thedodgerhater - For the most part, when a dude is out with his friends, his main goal is to get phone numbers, etc. The same guys that are interested in what women have to say about sports alone/sober, are the same guys who would care about what they have to say no matter the scenario.
Sleazy dudes always feign interest in what girls have to say about any topic... which is why they are sleazes.
@smo513 - Sometimes true, sometimes false (probably not the answer you were looking for). Many times, when guys are watching sports with their guy friends, a woman's interruption doesn't usually go over well and isn't usually taken seriously. However, if a woman says something that is insightful, then the guys may form a different opinion about her and welcome her in future conversations. I have seen this happen quite often.
@jmillender - For me, false. As long as she knows what she is talking about. Looks have NO bearing (although good looking girls who know sports is cool). I have often had better sports conversations with females than some males. I think our generation is moving past the "females don't know or belong in sports" mentality, although I think some females sportscasters are hired for there looks and not what they know.
@reddy_dean - Not true for me, but there are a lot of shallow people out there so I'll say True, I guess.
@micahsussman - True (mostly) Guys have to seem macho, and unless the girl has a VAST knowledge of sports, the guy thinks he knows more
@redsfan1966 - unfortunately that statement is typically true...
@dcplaya - Usually true, doesnt want to seem inferior in front of his guy friends about sports. Also doesnt want to get shown up by girl
@soulsesdents - You might be hanging with the wrong guys. I can appreciate when a woman shows knowledge about sports. Seems no different.
@NYSportsNut - false...as long as she comes across as knowledgeable.
@UC_SID - For me, that's false. Only time I don't want to hear what a woman has to say about sports is when SHE'S faking it ... honestly I'd rather talk sports w/ a woman because w/ men it usually ends up being a shouting match of "your team sucks"
@asloan23 – false
@vbh126 - if she knows her shit, i'm interested. most don't (which is not a knock, just fact from my experience). bonus pts if hot tho
@redsfan1966 - The guys probably feel "threatened" or "weak" if a female appears to know more or the same about sports..the hot thing..welll
@mnmcglynn - false. if she knows her stuff guys love that . nothing worst then girls who thinks all sports are stupid.
Question 3
Do you know any women that know more about sports than you or have taught you something you didn’t know? Is this intimidating?
@metstwerp - You know more than me on more than one topic, especially when it comes to current teams and players. This does not bother me in the least. My female friend was a sports writer for a couple of years, so it certainly wouldnt bother me if I found out she knew more than I did on a particular topic. I would be no more bothered to know you know more than me on a subject than if it was a guy.
@smo513 - Yes, I know several women that know more about certain sports than I do. I don't think it is intimidating at all, because I am always willing to learn new things about sports that I don't know much about, so if someone wants to share some knowledge, I'm always willing to listen. On many occasions, I have asked women questions about particular sports.
@jmillender - I have not met one but would not find it intimidating.
@dmoody46 - I do know women that know more than me or have taught me something that I didn't know, but it typically does not intimidate me. For example, when it comes to talking about the Mets, Islanders, or other teams that my girlfriend follows more than me, I don't try to be all macho and act like I know what I'm talking about because I don't. I use it as a chance to learn, not a chance to prove that I have testicles.
@thedodgerhater - I do have some female friends I've met through Twitter that know a ton about Minor League Baseball-- especially the Giants farm system. It's rare that I run out of things to say about a topic, because I pride myself in being able to have at least a basic conversation about everything from the Blue Jackets to the Daytona 500, but it is a little strange at first to not know as much as someone on a topic, whether it is a man or woman.
Personally, I'm one of the guys (who may be in the minority) that find sports knowledge by women extremely attractive, and although not exactly a concrete prerequisite for some sort of relationship, it's definitely a considerable factor.
@UC_SID - yes I do, and know it's not. Of course, I'm always willing to learn from those who know more than myself
@asloan23 - Yeah Andrea knows more about hockey than I do and no it isn't intimidating
@NYSportzNut - outside of twitter, I do not know many women who are as into sports as I am... I can have great sports convos with many of my female followers on twitter though and its not intimidating at all.
@redsfan1966 - Yes....I guess it is slightly "emasculating"...
@tonester5 - I actually know one that is very close in knowledge. not intimidating - more attracting.
@reddy_dean - Yes, women have told me something related to sports that I didn't already know. No, it wasn't intimidating.
@michasussman – Yes on both accounts. It can be intimidating, but its more exciting as it gives us something more to talk about.
@philhensel - you know much more about hockey than most ppl (including me) I know do. No I'm not intimidated
@tinosorambler - I've never met a woman who knows more about sports in general than me, but I have met a couple with better specific knowledge
@mnmcglynn - I know tons about all kinds of sports but I often meet women who know more about one sport then me. Baseball the most.
@aka_elvis - again depends on the woman...but then again I've been just as many clueless men as women so it is what it is...
@jmillender - Doesn't matter as long as the person saying it is credible.
Question 4
If you read or hear a valid statement about sports, does it make a difference to you or change your perception if it is said by a man or woman?
@metstwerp - No. Information is information. I dont care how I get it.
@soulesdents – not at all
@redsfan1966 – no
@UC_SID - no not really. It'd affect my opinion of the person but not because of their gender
@micahsussman - um no, valid statements are valid for a reason
@philhensel - problem is most sideline reporters (primarily female) rarely say anything valid. Always ask same? What are u gonna do in 2nd
@tonester5 - Does not change my perception, man or woman.
@reddy_dean - No, it doesn't matter. Men and women alike can be fools.
@dcplaya - Not at all. If the statement is valid or meaningful, who cares what gender it came from.
@mnmcglynn - it depends on the subject but for the most part no...there are some items in sports that are gender specific.
@dmoody46 - No. Validity trumps gender every day and twice on Sundays
I must say I wasn't expecting this big of a response. It was interesting though to find so many people that, for the most part, believed these statements to be untrue. What are your thoughts? Do you agree with these faithful tweeters?
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Shameless Plug Time!
My good friend Jonathan Machuga hosts his own podcast, "Cincinnati Fast Break." Since Tiffany George and I recently created these blogs, and he is very supportive of women in sports, he invited us on his show to share our thoughts and give us another platform to push for change.
You can check out the podcast here: http://chuges.podbean.com/2011/02/01/2111-women-in-sports-roundtable/
You can check out the podcast here: http://chuges.podbean.com/2011/02/01/2111-women-in-sports-roundtable/
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