02/06/2026
In the 1920s and 30's, basketball was deemed unsuitable by many people, of girls who played basketball, due to prevailing Edwardian-era views that competitive, strenuous sports threatened women's reproductive health, caused "unladylike" masculinity, and violated traditional gender roles. Doctors warned of injuries and "heart lesions," while educators believed physical,, high-intensity play was damaging to young girls.
In the 40's and 50' it was not considered "bad" in terms of skill, but it was viewed as a different, less strenuous activity than the boys' game, often restricted by 6-on-6, half-court rules. Society viewed full-court play as too exhausting for girls, focusing instead on limited dribbling and zone defense to protect their health.
Every player who played the game before Title 9 played the game because they loved the sport. They fought to play in many cases, and it took courage to step out onto the floor knowing they were players in "exhibition games" before the men's games were played.
Until Title 9 was passed, did basketball for girls actually gave the girls their "own" sports in schools and not just for "exhibition" purposes.
For this reason, the celebration of 100 years at BSHS is so important for people to understand that playing basketball through the years didn't come easy for players, and with every foot that touched the court, every ball that was thrown into a basket, tells the story of girls' basketball at bsdh and bshs the last 100 years. Luckily, WV stood by the girls throughout the years. Now, it's our time to come together to show respect to ALL the teams who played the game. Feb 13th, mark it on your calendar. I am sure many players on the 20's, 30's, 40's,s and 50's team would be if they could.
Former players please sign up. Public....come celebrate with those who played the game.
Spread the word. Something is happening at BSHS Gymnasium and it is a once in a lifetime event. It starts at 5:10 with the wee ones learning to play the game. And it just "grows" from there.
See you on the 13th of Feb.
