Throughout history, women have been restricted from many of life’s opportunities. As society becomes more inclusive over time, opportunities are being made available to women throughout the country.

The Department of Recreational Sports’ mission is to promote activity, wellness, and development by providing high quality, inclusive experiences and facilities for the students and community of Texas A&M University.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Rec Sports is highlighting the women of the Rec who help lead the department towards its mission.

Jessica Konetski, Senior Assistant Director of Sport Clubs, has worked for the department for 15 years. She admires Rec Sports’ mission to be a welcoming environment for all and its drive to improve for better student and employee development. 

“There’s a lot of support here. There’s a lot of women to look up to that have come before me and even the women who come after me; there is always just someone to learn from,” Konetski shares, referring to her experience working for Rec Sports.

Even more, Rec Sports strives to create an inclusive environment by offering programs like Ladies Night with Intramural (IM) Sports to encourage women to join IM leagues and show women there are others like them interested in similar activities.

Evelyn Dorsey, Members Services manager, is a well-known individual around the Student Rec Center. She has worked with Rec Sports for 31 years and has enjoyed watching it prosper. 

“Great and genuine relationships have grown from Rec Sports,” said Dorsey when asked about her greatest achievement while working here.

Dorsey is one of many employees at Rec Sports who believes that the greatest outcome of working here is the bonds that are made.

“It’s easier to do things when you see other people doing it,” said McGrath, a graduate assistant who has worked in IM Sports for two years. 

McGrath said she would like to see more female-oriented programming to encourage women to participate and help them feel less intimidated to try new things.

As part of an all-female Intramural Sports volleyball team her junior year, Alexandria Logan said the experience helped her regain a love she once shared for sports before a past injury. 

“I thought being part of an IM league was cool because I was able to play with other women who shared a passion for the sport and played just for fun. The women on the team helped give me a sense of empowerment while playing,” Logan said.

Overall, Rec Sports is built on relationships and the support from those who utilize the facilities, participate in program activities, and work in the various positions here.

There is still a long road ahead towards women’s equality. With community support and the strive to create an inclusive environment for all, the Department of Recreational Sports will continue to dedicate itself to paving a path towards equitability.