FAQs

Founded in 1974, Sportswomen of Colorado is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, honoring, and empowering Colorado girls and women in sport. We were the first organization in the country to recognize female athletes at every level statewide and continue that legacy through awards, youth programming, scholarships, and storytelling.

SWOC serves girls and women of all ages across Colorado, from elementary school students to high school, collegiate, professional, Olympic, and Paralympic athletes, coaches, and contributors. We prioritize access and equity, with a strong focus on underserved communities and Title I schools.

SWOC’s core programs include the Annual Awards Celebration, the Satellite Sports Initiative, and Camp Scholarships. Together, these programs expand opportunity, visibility, and participation in sport across Colorado.

The Annual Awards Celebration is SWOC’s signature event, bringing together more than 450 athletes, coaches, families, and supporters to recognize outstanding girls and women in sport from across Colorado. The celebration builds community, elevates role models, and shines a spotlight on achievement, leadership, and impact at every level of sport.

Since its inception, Sportswomen of Colorado has honored more than 2,200 individuals and teams from throughout the state. Honorees include athletes, teams, coaches, and contributors recognized not only for athletic excellence, but also for leadership, advocacy, and lasting contributions to girls’ and women’s sports.

Launched in Fall 2022, the Satellite Sports Initiative brings collegiate women athletes into Title I elementary schools to lead sport clinics during physical education classes. To date, the program has impacted more than 600 students in grades 3 through 6 across Colorado.
The initiative has expanded beyond its original pilot to include soccer and lacrosse, with plans to add flag football in 2026. Thanks to a community grant from Scheels Johnstown, SWOC has also begin providing sport equipment donations to participating schools’ PE departments, helping ensure long term access to quality programming.

SWOC’s Camp Scholarships help eligible girls access sports camps and athletic programming by reducing financial barriers. The program began in the early 1980s and was made possible through the generosity of Helen M McLoraine. Her legacy continues today through an endowed fund established in 2001.
To date, more than 850 girls have benefited from Camp Scholarships, helping ensure they can participate, stay active, and build confidence through sport.

SWOC’s camps and clinics provide more than physical activity. They foster confidence, teamwork, leadership, and healthy lifestyles while connecting young girls with collegiate athletes who serve as powerful role models. These experiences help break down gender stereotypes and encourage lifelong participation in sport.

Through recognition, role modeling, and hands on experiences, SWOC programs help girls build confidence, develop leadership skills, and envision what is possible for their futures. Participation in sport is linked to improved academic performance, self esteem, and long term physical and mental well being, creating a ripple effect that strengthens communities statewide.

Sportswomen of Colorado has long served as a convening force for leaders, advocates, and supporters of girls’ and women’s sports across the state. By elevating stories and increasing media coverage, SWOC helps athletes gain recognition, validate achievement, and pursue collegiate and professional opportunities.

SWOC is funded through event sponsorships, grants, individual donations, and community partnerships. All funds raised stay in Colorado and directly support SWOC programs, events, and core operations.

You can support Sportswomen of Colorado by attending or sponsoring the Annual Awards Celebration, making a donation, nominating an athlete or coach, partnering through a school or university, interning with us, joining our board or volunteering your time and expertise.

Schools, especially Title I elementary schools, and community organizations can partner with SWOC to host Satellite Sports Clinics or explore additional collaborative opportunities. Programs are offered at no cost and are designed to meet schools where they are.