2008 Woodie Awards
Letter: Hawks are Hawks regardless of sex
Issue date: 9/26/07 Section: Opinion
- Page 1 of 1
To the editor:
I am writing to point out the misuse of the phrase "Lady Hawks." In last week's issue of The Hawk, the women's tennis team was referred to as the Lady Hawks. Never in Saint Joseph's history has a women's team name been prefaced by the word "Lady," and I would prefer if it does not start now.
I have never really understood the use of the word Lady before a team name. If the women's tennis team is to be called the "Lady Hawks," then why isn't the men's team known as the "Gentleman Hawks?" The use of the prefix "Lady," in my opinion (and I am sure I'm not alone in thinking this), suggests that the women's team is second and inferior to the men's team. It also brings about a certain connotation that goes with the word "lady."
I don't know about you, but when I hear "lady" I think of tea parties, Cotillion, and white gloves with evening gowns. While some of the tennis players may be like this off the court, they sure as heck aren't ladylike on the court. At least, I hope they aren't.
Basically, I believe that the name "Lady Hawks" defeats the purpose of a sports team. Sports are supposed to be an outlet for frustration, a means of competition, and a great way to exercise. So, can we please drop the "Lady" and let the women athletes be unladylike?
Molly Porth '10
The Hawk apologizes for this error.
I am writing to point out the misuse of the phrase "Lady Hawks." In last week's issue of The Hawk, the women's tennis team was referred to as the Lady Hawks. Never in Saint Joseph's history has a women's team name been prefaced by the word "Lady," and I would prefer if it does not start now.
I have never really understood the use of the word Lady before a team name. If the women's tennis team is to be called the "Lady Hawks," then why isn't the men's team known as the "Gentleman Hawks?" The use of the prefix "Lady," in my opinion (and I am sure I'm not alone in thinking this), suggests that the women's team is second and inferior to the men's team. It also brings about a certain connotation that goes with the word "lady."
I don't know about you, but when I hear "lady" I think of tea parties, Cotillion, and white gloves with evening gowns. While some of the tennis players may be like this off the court, they sure as heck aren't ladylike on the court. At least, I hope they aren't.
Basically, I believe that the name "Lady Hawks" defeats the purpose of a sports team. Sports are supposed to be an outlet for frustration, a means of competition, and a great way to exercise. So, can we please drop the "Lady" and let the women athletes be unladylike?
Molly Porth '10
The Hawk apologizes for this error.
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