Bates College Athletics celebrated National Girls and Women in Sport Day virtually this year. In a virtual panel presented "live" on Bates Athletics' YouTube and Facebook channels Wednesday at 4 p.m., Bates student-athletes shared their stories and discussed this year's theme,  "Lead Her Forward."

The free event was moderated by women's basketball assistant coach Christina Marquette, and featured student-athletes from various Bates women's teams. Student-athletes shared how sports have helped them develop leadership skills and overcome adversity, and they also offered advice to younger athletes.

"We are excited to have the opportunity to celebrate women and girls and all those who champion them,"  said Senior Associate Director of Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator Celine Cunningham. "It's so refreshing and rewarding to see our current Bobcats sharing their stories and the positive impact sports have in their lives."

This year marks the 35th Annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). Each year, the event inspires girls and women to play, be active, and realize their full power. NGWSD is an opportunity to acknowledge the accomplishments of female athletes and the positive influence of sports participation. To learn more, visit www.NGWSD.org.

Watch the panel below! And check out the hype video for NGWSD above.