The Eight Most Popular Sports for Women and Girls

If you’re thinking of taking up a sport, or enrolling your daughter in one, here are some great options. As a lifelong athlete and mother, I am a huge proponent of introducing young girls to sports at an early age. Nothing fosters a healthy relationship with competition, and a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderieContinue reading “The Eight Most Popular Sports for Women and Girls”

For Athletes Unable to Compete in Sports, the Mental Struggle is Real

Athletes are uniquely qualified to handle the mental issues of this pandemic. As a life-long athlete, I can tell you that it is both a state of mind, and a way of life. When you get involved in competitive sports from a young age, it conditions you to crave the camaraderie of a team, theContinue reading “For Athletes Unable to Compete in Sports, the Mental Struggle is Real”

Mental Health Benefits of Sports for Adults

Its never too late to try out for a team. Not all of us were athletes in high school. For many people, the idea of being picked last, or trying to play a new sport was daunting, and those fears continue on into adulthood. It’s a real shame, because there are both physical and mentalContinue reading “Mental Health Benefits of Sports for Adults”

Should Headgear be Mandatory in Girls Lacrosse?

Does headgear in girls’ lacrosse help, or hurt the player? As you may know, I am an avid lacrosse player, as well as fan, having played for years at Duke. Recently, there has been a bit of controversy surrounding girl’s lacrosse, and whether or not headgear is necessary. As a surgeon, I am very muchContinue reading “Should Headgear be Mandatory in Girls Lacrosse?”

How Playing Sports in Columbia, MD Taught Me about Diversity

Team sports teach people to look past race, religion, and sexual orientation in favor of working towards a common goal. I have always played team sports, and one of the things I love most about them is that during every game you and your teammates leave EVERYTHING out on the field; everyone’s sweat is clearContinue reading “How Playing Sports in Columbia, MD Taught Me about Diversity”

The Benefits of Girls Playing Sports

With the passing of Pat Summitt, I was reflecting on my own past with Duke Lacrosse, as well as other team sports. It made me stop and think about all of the positive benefits of girls playing sports.  Pat Summitt was an exceptional motivator, competitor, coach, and mentor, so in her honor I wanted toContinue reading “The Benefits of Girls Playing Sports”

The Power of Teammates- Both On and Off the Field

Teammates can be a great support system, not only in sports, but in life, too. Ahhh, I remember my lacrosse career fondly–the days of preparing for that big game, practicing with your best friends, and celebrating the huge wins and the tough losses. We are celebrating the 20th anniversary of Duke Lacrosse this weekend andContinue reading “The Power of Teammates- Both On and Off the Field”