Paving the Way for Girls and Women in Sports with DiDi Haračić — Episode 143

I am very excited for today’s episode for a couple of reasons.
First, if you’ve been listening to the show for a while, you know
I haven’t always been a solo host. Well, we have some exciting
things happening and I’m very pleased to announce that one of my
future co-hosts is making her debut on the podcast today.


 


Cara Myers is NRPA’s marketing and engagement manager, and she
joined the NRPA team recently, coming to us from the marketing
team at City of Aurora Parks and Recreation in Colorado. So, a
big welcome to Cara as one of our new Open Space Radio hosts!


 


I am also very excited to welcome today’s guest, DiDi Haračić.
DiDi is a professional soccer player (or footballer, depending on
where you’re tuning in from) and is the goalkeeper for Angel City
FC in the National Women’s Soccer League.


 


DiDi’s professional career began in 2011, and she has since
played professionally in the U.S., internationally, and with the
Bosnia and Herzegovina Women’s National Team.


 


She joined Angel City FC in 2022, when she was named the club’s
most valuable player and supporters’ player of the year. Aside
from soccer, she is a very talented artist and photographer – and
seems like just a generally cool individual.


 


Cara and I have been fans of Angel City and DiDi since binging
the entire Angel City documentary on HBO, so we highly recommend
watching that, if you haven’t already.


 


Tune in below to learn more about DiDi and her journey to
becoming a professional soccer player. You’ll also learn:


 


The progress that has been made regarding women’s equity in
sports and the challenges that still remain

How participation in sports and other recreational activities
shaped DiDi growing up

How sports can teach various life skills and have a positive
impact on a person’s self-confidence

How representation in sports at all levels breaks down gender
stereotypes and promotes gender equity

Proactive steps park and recreation agencies can take to
ensure equal opportunities and support for girls and women at all
levels of competition, and much more!




Social Media:


Follow DiDi on Instagram


Follow Angel City on Instagram


Follow NRPA on Instagram


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