Maggie Hendricks

Is it medal worthy: women's boxing

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In 2004, women's wrestling debuted in Athens. After that debut, the sport has grown exponentially, and the U.S. has a strong team for this year's games. Other traditionally male sports, including hockey and pole vaulting, have been opened to women. Outside of the Olympics, women have been boxing for years. Why hasn't women's boxing been added to the Olympics?

Yes: There really isn't a valid reason why female boxers aren't allowed in the games. The International Boxing Association, AIBA, does have a committee on women's competition, and two women's bouts were part of the men's world championships this past fall. Women even have their own AIBA world championship, though, inexplicably, it is held separately from the men's event. The women's committee has representatives from all over the world, so it meets the international requirement.

No: Because women should get back in the kitchen and stay out of a gym!

Seriously, I've yet to find a valid reason why women's boxing isn't a part of the Olympic games. If anyone can think of one that doesn't involve the words "barefoot" or "pregnant," I am all ears. Otherwise, give women a chance in the ring. They just might knock you out.*

*Yes, I am super-cheesy.

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