Sarah Fuller, a 21-year-old Vanderbilt soccer goalkeeper and football kicker has become the first woman to play in a power 5 NCAA football game. While Fuller is making a name for herself and paving a way for women in male dominated sports there are many casting shadows from the sidelines. The decision for her to kick for the team has been met with criticism calling her debut a ridiculous stunt. The fact of the matter is that it is not just what she has done in the game, but it is a celebration of women in sport and a step in the right direction of breaking down gender in sport barriers. 

Fuller quickly went viral on social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram, with images of her with her football helmet inscribed with the phrase “play like a girl”  on its back. This was met with praise from the sporting world but also many critics that used the opportunity to target women in sport. With that said, Fuller’s impact on the sporting world and gender barriers will most definitely outlast negative remarks made by individuals over the internet.  

When looking back at Vanderbilt’s decision to dress a female football player, the hateful backlash that followed will not be the topic of conversation in years to come. It will be how Sarah Fuller made a much-needed positive change in male dominated sport. She is giving other women in sport the courage to follow her and break down misogynistic stereotypes beyond just football.  

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Featured image:  Fuller’s Vanderbilt helmet (AP Photo)