Mariana Lopa grew up in a family where girls were encouraged to pursue their sporting passions. Her mother, the first Lady Eagle in Ateneo, paved the way for Mariana to embrace basketball as her own. This passion led her to co-found Girls Got Game, a non-profit organization aiming to empower young Filipinas through sports camps.
The journey wasn’t easy. When Girls Got Game started in 2015, the concept of an all-girls sports camp was foreign. They faced challenges securing funding and support. However, Mariana’s unwavering belief in the program’s value eventually attracted sponsors who shared their vision.
Beyond funding, the organization encounters the harsh realities of poverty. Many girls from underprivileged communities face economic struggles and familial responsibilities, making it difficult for them to pursue sports. “We have girls who say, ‘Coach, I won’t be able to come tomorrow because I have to sell sampaguita,’” shares Mariana. Witnessing these realities solidified her commitment to fighting for the right of all girls to play.
Through Girls Got Game, Mariana witnesses the transformative power of sports firsthand. Shy girls, hesitant on the first day, blossom into confident individuals after a year. Beyond athletic skills, the program instills character through weekly exercises, journaling, and on-court experiences. Mariana emphasizes the importance of learning from both wins and losses, teaching girls to handle defeat with grace and resilience.
While acknowledging progress in women’s sports in the Philippines, Mariana believes there’s still a long way to go. She urges people to engage with female athletes, recognizing their stories and supporting their careers. Emphasizing the need for investment in women’s sports, Mariana highlights the commitment and dedication of female athletes who often sacrifice personal gains to pursue their passions.
Mariana’s dream is to see women’s basketball games in the Philippines draw crowds as enthusiastic as those attending men’s games. She envisions a future where women athletes receive the same level of recognition and support, fueled by the belief that they deserve the same opportunities to shine on the court.
