The rise of women’s sports—and why fathers should share it with their children: Part 2
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EmailFathers introducing children to women’s athletics can increase how children see respect for others. Part 2 introduces insights of sports journalist and podcaster Denise Salcedo.
The visibility and impact of women’s sports have grown substantially in recent years, fueled by increasing popularity, higher attendance, and expanding national interest. Fathers play an important role in introducing children to diverse activities and should consider watching and attending women‑led sporting events to strengthen family relationships and child development. This article will focus on an interview with Denise Salcedo, who is a sports journalist and podcaster.
Denise Salcedo is a multi-media personality, the creator of the media website InstinctCulture.com, and professional wrestling podcaster whose YouTube channel reaches more than 241,000 followers. She is also a regular on‑air contributor for Sirius/XM’s Pro Wrestling Nation. Salcedo is deeply committed to elevating the visibility of women in sports, whether as athletes, broadcasters or journalists. In this article, she offers valuable insights into the importance of fathers engaging meaningfully with their children through women’s sports.
When asked why it’s important for fathers to value women in sports, Denise explained, “We need to move away from the negativity directed at women and create an environment where they receive the respect, encouragement and positive treatment they deserve.” She added, “When fathers speak positively about women to their children, they model respect and teach their kids to value women’s hard work, perspectives and contributions.” In other words, it matters when fathers show kids that a woman’s perspective, voice and opinion deserve to be heard. Listening instead of dismissing helps children learn that everyone belongs and has something valuable to say.
Denise was asked to expand on the idea of supporting women working in sports. She commented, “We need to see more women working behind the scenes in sports, so their voices and contributions are genuinely valued.” Denise further explained, “Young children, girls and boys alike, look up to the professionals they see on TV, social media and at live sporting events. When they see women conducting interviews and providing commentary, these roles no longer appear male‑dominated.” As a result, when fathers speak positively about women broadcasters and choose to watch women‑led programs, they show their children that women’s contributions and opinions matter.
While some fathers and families may gravitate toward male‑led sports due to their increased visibility in social and traditional media, Denise offered an important perspective. “An athlete is an athlete—sons, daughters, men and women all deserve the same respect and recognition.” She also pondered the importance of recognizing what women bring to sports and family entertainment, and parents, especially fathers, have a unique opportunity to introduce women’s athletics to their children through attendance of high school, college or professional events.
To wrap up the conversation, Denise stated, “It’s about fathers teaching their children—sons and daughters—with care, showing that respect matters, especially toward female athletes, journalists, interviewers and commentators.” Without it, kids may grow up believing that women deserve less respect than men, and that’s a message no father should ever want to send. Instead, fathers and male caregivers should raise kids who champion fairness, respect and equality.
This article is part 2 in a series from Michigan State University Extension entitled “The rise of women’s sports—and why fathers should share it with their children.”
You can learn more about child development, parent and caregiver webinars and family activities by visiting the MSU Extension Child and Family Development webpage and the MI Stronger Family Facebook page.
