Wrestle Like a Girl (WLAG) was founded in 2016 in Colorado Springs with the mission to empower girls and women through the sport of wrestling to become leaders in life. We sit at the intersection of wrestling, gender equality, and social good with a focus on Strategic Programming, Advocacy and Education, and Research. In just seven years, Wrestle Like a Girl has grown programs in 36 states, built bridges through the sport in seven countries, and has influenced tens of thousands women and girls globally by championing the inclusion of girls and women wrestling, advocating for healthier wrestling culture, and leading projects that reduce barriers to entry and increase opportunities. As the only organization in the world focused on girls and women in wrestling, we aspire to be the leading force in women’s advocacy through the power of sport.
GLITTER INTO GOLD GALA
This year’s Glitter into Gold Gala in Washington, DC will feature, not only the expansive work of WLAG, but also an intentional celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program that receives funding from the federal government. While this monumental decision furthered the ability for women and girls to participate in male-dominated sports across the country, we know the work isn’t over.
We invite you to join us to celebrate the growth of Wrestle Like A Girl around the world– and to celebrate the women and girls we have inspired through the sport of wrestling.
2022 AWARD RECIPIENTS
KYRA TIRANA BARRY THE BETTY AWARD
The Betty Award was created in 2020 to honor the late Betty Moffatt, who zealously supported causes, organizations, and individuals throughout her lifetime. This annual distinction will be awarded to a devoted steward of women’s wrestling; a paladin of the Wrestle Like A Girl movement. The Betty Award honors individuals who have significantly enhanced the women’s wrestling landscape through philanthropy or volunteerism.
TAMYRA MENSAH-STOCK THE A.R.J. COURAGE AWARD
The Afsoon Roshanzamir Johnston Courage Award was created in 2016 by Wrestle Like A Girl to honor Afsoon and to celebrate the quality of courage that she admires most - courage. Afsoon's bravery is apparent, as she left Iran to become the first woman in American History to win a wrestling medal at the World Championships in 1989. The award is presented to an athlete that demonstrates acute personal courage in the spirit of Afsoon.
DONNA DE VARONA ADRIENNE ARSHT LEADERSHIP AWARD
The Adrienne Arsht Leadership Award was established in 2022, in honor of business leader and impact philanthropist, Adrienne Arsht. This award recognizes a person who, over time, has personified extraordinary leadership under challenging circumstances. The recipient possesses unique and exceptional qualities which inspire and motivate others to achieve their fullest potential. The award identifies an individual of great character, moral courage, and tenacity. The individual is committed through his or her acts, to inspire others to follow in their example.
