From soccer fields to rugby pitches and championship softball games, women athletes continue to break barriers, redefine expectations and inspire future generations. Three Southern Nazarene University athletes, Abby Wood, Bella Morgas and Philomena Namosimalua, shared their journeys, accomplishments and hopes for the future of women’s sports.
For Abby Wood, winning her first state championship in 2022 stands as one of her proudest achievements.
“It was a moment that showed how much hard work and dedication paid off, and it’s something I’ll always remember,” Wood said.
Balancing her academic and athletic life, Wood said she makes sure to stay organized.
“I knock everything out on Fridays since I don’t have class. That day is strictly for school, no extra hitting or training, so I can focus and stay ahead.”
Her biggest supporter is her dad.
“My dad has always been by my side,” she said. “He pushes me to be a better player and a better person.”
Wood said her most memorable experience was competing in Arizona against top teams across the nation, a moment that fueled her love for competition. When it comes to handling pressure, she stays grounded by remembering why she plays.
“At the end of the day, this sport is fun, and that’s why I play.”
Bella Morgas found her passion for soccer through her older sister.
“Growing up watching my sister play made me want to start. It looked fun, and once I began, I fell in love with it,” Morgas said.
To Morgas, being a woman in sports carries deep meaning.
“It’s something so big. It’s about leading by example and embracing leadership.”
She also recognized the challenges female athletes face.
“A lack of representation has always been there,” Morgas said. “We can overcome that by having more media presence and growing leadership skills.”
Morgas noted positive changes in recent years, including improvements in equal pay and viewership.
For Philomena Namosimalua, rugby opened unexpected doors and new opportunities.
“I play a male-dominated sport,” Namosimalua said. “It’s aggressive, but it’s fun. Playing rugby led me to SNU on a scholarship, and I never imagined that would happen.”
Though her mom initially opposed the idea, Namosimalua said her determination changed her mind.
“She now supports me 110 percent,” she said.
Namosimalua said more work still needs to be done for women in sports, especially regarding pay and exposure.
“Women’s sports don’t receive enough recognition or support compared to men’s,” she said. “The pay gap is still huge, even at elite levels. We need more sponsorships, brand deals and media coverage to push women’s names in a positive light.”
Despite the challenges, Namosimalua remains passionate about encouraging younger girls to get involved.
“Just do it,” she said. “Take a leap of faith into whatever sport you love. It only takes one young girl at a time to help women’s sports grow.”
The stories of Wood, Morgas and Namosimalua show that women’s sports are more than competition. They are about leadership, growth and breaking barriers. From high school championships to college scholarships, these athletes prove that dedication, support and courage can open doors that once seemed impossible.
As women’s sports continue to gain visibility and respect, their voices remind us that progress is ongoing and the next generation is already leading the charge.
Photo by: SNU Creative