Emmeline Pankhurst. Jane Austen. Clara Barton. Nelly Bly. Amelia Earhart. Marie Curie. Grace Hopper. And now, Sarah Fuller.
Great women pioneers all. She did not ask to be a news novelty; she stepped up for her school when they needed her. That alone is heroic. And brave? We are talking about the Southeast Conference! Where the athletes rushing the kicker are as big as trucks and over twice her weight. Her kick wasn’t the highest, longest, or farthest but there is no doubt its power will be felt for generations to come. I look forward to a day when this is no big deal to see deserving athletes compete at all levels. Regardless. But it IS a big deal. Huge. Growing up with football starting at age 7, I think my first football poster was of Jim Taylor and the Green Bay Packers of the 60’s. What is going to be really cool is not only when female barrier-breakers become the heroes of little girls everywhere, but then make that leap to become heroes to little BOYS everywhere. Well, since Karen says I never grew up, I volunteer to be one of the first. I can only imagine what it takes to get into a major college football game as a player. Stay safe Sarah Fuller, and keep on kicking ass! OK. The next step is the pros… Now, I am sure it’s not just me, but there is a feeling of a groundswell with women riding the wave and totally pitted in the barrel. There are more films with female leads of all persuasions. There are more TV shows with women actors and executives. I love a good revenge movie, but when women turn into Paul Kersey, now THAT’s entertainment! A lot of pent-up everything.
Athletics have produced an entirely new economic strata which will be the subject of my third writing project. It is called Athletocracy and is all about the effects of athletes and their enormous accumulation of wealth through their physical talents. Look for it next year.
I am interested to see what another pioneer will do in the new White House. Kamala Harris, come on down! There are a lot of people watching to see what piece of history you will provide. My prayers are with you and the President.
Stay well.
Mark's Playhouse 