When the Mighty Cheetahs, an undefeated all-girls soccer team, decides to compete in a boys division, everyone begins to question what the saying “kick like a girl” really means. For the Mighty Cheetahs, the phrase represents self- confidence. The public is invited to also consider what the expression means by attending a free screening of the HBO documentary “Kick Like a Girl” at 7 p.m., February 1 at Scripps College’s Balch Auditorium, 1030 Columbia Avenue.
With humor and honesty, the film explores how boys and girls compete with each other on and off the soccer field. The documentary is narrated by 8-year-old Lizzie, a self-described soccer girl, who doesn’t let juvenile diabetes, elbow blocks, or grass stains get in the way with her drive to win. “Kick Like a Girl” reminds us of the lessons we learn in competitive athletics, and how sports can be an effective tool in sparking social change and equality.
After the screening, award-winning filmmaker Jenny Mackenzie, Ph.D., will lead a discussion of the 25-minute film. Mackenzie is a motivational speaker, soccer coach, and mother of three, including the documentary film’s narrator, Lizzie. Mackenzie will share the lessons learned about fair play on the playing field, and how those experiences can influence classrooms and the workplace.
Call Rosa Maria Santana at (909) 607-7177 to schedule an interview with Mackenzie.