How the Women's Athletic Association Fought for Women in CU Sports
In 1933, Wilma Howard Garrison (A&S’35) helped the CU women’s field hockey team win the junior class championship — an accomplishment that gained her praise for an excellent play, and the likely reason why she acquired this laurel wreath pin from the Women’s Athletic Association (WAA).
Established by women students passionate about athletics, the WAA strove to promote interest in women’s sports. Membership was based on points, which were earned by participating and competing in the association’s sports. Members could then acquire accolades such as pins, letters and sweaters.
From its inception in 1905 to Garrison’s membership in the early 1930s, the organization experienced hard-earned growth. It expanded the variety of sports in which CU women could participate, adding options like volleyball, baseball, swimming and dance to the roster.
The association also helped CU women obtain a designated spot for their athletics. In 1912, women began using a space located on The Hill as an athletic facility (before this, they were required to schedule time at the Men’s Gymnasium). In 1928, the university built a dedicated Women’s Gymnasium.
Awards like Garrison’s pin reflect the history of CU women’s athletics and tell the story of women pursuing something greater.
Factoids:
Origins
Wilma Howard Garrison (A&S’35) earned this pin as a wing player in field hockey.
Debut
In 1905 on Gamble Field, CU women competed in athletics for the first time, playing field hockey against the University of Denver.
School Spirit
Garrison’s other student involvements included drama, a sorority, an honorary society and several women’s organizations.
First Four
Four sports originally made up the WAA: basketball, field hockey, gymnastics and tennis.
Est.
The CU Women’s Athletic Association (WAA) formed in 1905.
CU Soulmates
Wilma married fellow CU alum, William Garrison (·¡±ô·¡²Ô²µ°ù’33).
Design
Prior to the 1930s, the university was typically referred to as UC.
Photo courtesy Mona Lambrecht/ CU Heritage Museum