"Monday night hockey rinks were frigid
in Canada during the First World War,
but women's hockey teams were heating
them up.
Seventeen-year-old Albertine Lapensee,
a forward for the Cornwall Victorias,
was a star. People couldn't believe
that a girl could play so well and thought
she was a boy in disguise!"
Playing hockey with women who knew they could score more in the early 20th century was a pretty important time for Albertine. Her prowess on the rink was admirable. One can only imagine how much better all women were when they hiked up the long dresses they wore to a manageable length that allowed for much more freedom on the ice.
This is but one of the ways women changed the sports they played throughout history. The young women who play sports today may not know what they missed. After reading this book, they will be in awe of the women who pushed for change that today affects all female players. This book looks back to a time when women were expected to cover their entire bodies. Beginning in 1890 with cycling, readers are introduced to Katherine Kittie Knox, who knew that knickerbockers held the key to success in bike races.
Moving on to swimming, hockey, tennis and soccer, every change was inspiring and made a huge difference for those who played women's sports. Of course, they continue to impact play today. In back matter, the 'women who dressed to win' are introduced with a short paragraph and a thumbnail sketch. Following that, the story continues to recent times and further changes being made.
Eva Byrne provides a historical look at the inanity of the clothing women were expected to wear. They are worthy of a giggle here and there, and of some surprise for those who have never considered what it might have been like for early athletes.
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