When Girls Became Lions

"The memory of a strong woman is a sanctuary . . . ." And so begins our story. It's 1983. Teacher Bailey Crawford and a bunch of rag tag girls are about to make history as their school's first, and only, state champions. But few in town care; they're only girls, after all. It's not until twenty-five years later in 2008 when new coach Reynalda Wallace discovers their story and recognition for the champs finally arrives. In the process, Rey learns how much of her own lifepast and presentis bound to those first athletes whose struggle she never knew existed. Until now. --------------------- The novel moves between 1983 and 2008 as the two coaches' stories progress, capturing the impact Title IX legislation had on one mid-western town. It is a unique literary contribution to both women's fiction and the ordinarily male-dominated sports genre as it celebrates women's friendships against the backdrop of sport history. It is a story for everyonefrom soccer dads and college coaches to professional athletes, high school competitors and the many women and men who support them. The incredible championship of the U.S.A. Women's Soccer Team at the June 2015 FIFA World Cup confirmed the sport's popularity and the growing impact of women athletes as role models. When Girls Became Lions continues the celebration of both. What others are saying: "Absolutely love this great read about women in sports! Contemporary fiction with women athletes at the center of the narrative is long overdue." Julie Foudy, USA Soccer, ESPN "Finally, a novel about the beautiful game and the girls who just wanted a chance to play the world's most favorite sport." Jo and Val penned a great story about the end results of many sacrifices and the true benefits of sportfun, competition, purpose, perseverance, teamwork, friendships and the love of the game." Amanda Cromwell, Head Women's Soccer Coach, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) "When Girls Became Lions is an inspiring novel that wonderfully depicts the triumphs and struggles of women in sports in spite of the overwhelming odds against them. I am so pleased that the authors have woven such a narrative into the fabric of this little discussed issue in America history."Dr. Brian Johnson, President, Tuskegee University "This novel illustrates the emotion of sport as it chronicles the journey of fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, grandparents, coaches, school administrators and student during the transition from pre-Title IX expectations to 20th century possibilities. You'll be inspired by the story!" Jean Driscoll, Eight-time winner of the Boston Marathon, U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame "I read a lot of fiction and am thrilled that Val and Jo have given us When Girls Became Lions, a story with women athletes at the heart. I've looked for a novel like this for a long time to provide a window into the world of women's sports and Title IX's implications, especially to inspireand informour younger athletes. I can't wait to give a copy to my players and friends!" Jane Albright, Head Women's Basketball Coach, University of Nevada "The story that too often goes missing in today's athletic arena is that of the Title IX pioneers who made it possible for young women to compete...its characters are real and their experiences true, reminding us of the many women who endured so much because they just wanted to play their game. This novel is a winner for all of us." Sue Semrau, Head Women's Basketball Coach, Florida State University, Athletic Coast Coach of the Year and President of the WBCA

Valerie J. Gin is a professor of kinesiology and five-time college Coach of the Year in volleyball and softball. When not traveling or teaching for the International Sport Leadership Schools, she's downhill skiing, watching Chicago sport teams, or walking her dog on the beach in Gloucester, MA.