In Redding, California, a small Northern California town surrounded by mountains and open fields, professional discus thrower Elena Bruckner kept noticing one thing: an absence of female athletes.
Throwing events in track and field were practically invisible to most young girls in Shasta County. For Bruckner, a former collegiate-record breaker and Olympic Trials finalist, that gap felt personal.
“I already knew there was a lack of throws coaches,” Bruckner said. “I knew this would be an amazing place to provide something that’s free and accessible for them.”
Her solution became “Throw Like a Girl,” a free clinic at Simpson University created to introduce girls to discus, shot put, and the confidence that comes with discovering their own strength.
For many participants, it’s their first time trying the sport. For Bruckner, it’s a chance to challenge long-held stereotypes about what girls are “allowed” to be.
“People are going to tell you not to do it”, she said. “They will say you won’t be feminine anymore…that was not how I felt about myself or my sport.”
On the field, the impact lands in real time.
“I have never been to a clinic like this,” participant Molly Rogge said. “It is really nice to be surrounded by other girls who are all trying the same things.”
Nearby, Avery O’Connor steadies a discus for the first time.
“I was super nervous,” she said. “But I felt empowered. I felt different.”
As the field fills with encouragement and determination, one message becomes clear: Throwing like a girl isn’t a limitation. It’s strength.
“It used to be an insult,” Rogge said. “Now, it’s something I can use to empower myself.”
Watch the video above to learn more about “Throw Like a Girl.” Check out similar athletic clinics being held across the United States through Gainbridge Assists here.
