The Goal of the Oaks
In our effort to support female athletes as they learn the sport of baseball, the Oaks encourage our players by:
• focusing on player development
• encouraging skill-building for every girl in our program
• showcasing female leadership
• fighting for equity in sports
• ensuring every player has the opportunity to learn and thrive
We’re happy to share the following books and links, which are in line with the philosophy and goals of the Oaks.
In the News
LOOKING BACK AT THE FIRST FEMALE COACH AT THE LITTLE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES

One of the most inspiring females in the history of Little League was Kathy Barnard, the first female manager during the Little League Baseball World Series. (Photo courtesy of LittleLeague.org)
OPINION: TV EXPOSURE FOR WOMEN'S SPORTS A GAME CHANGER (EAST BAY TIMES)
The perspective begins to change as more and more women's sports receive coverage on television.
'A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN' COMING TO AMAZON (ELLE)
The 'A a League of Their Own' TV series coming Amazon will offer a re-imagining of the classic feminist film.
OAKLAND A'S SEND MESSAGE OF EMPOWERMENT IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BASEBALL FOR ALL (NBC SPORTS BAY AREA)

Baseball For All's partnership with the Oakland Athletics has wide-reaching impact on female ballplayers. (Photo courtesy of Baseball For All)
BREAKING BOUNDARIES IN BASEBALL (ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION)
Why more young, female players are unwilling to give up the sport they love.
PARENTS SHOULD LIMIT SPORTS PARTICIPATION FOR CHILDREN, TRAINERS SAY (NEW YORK TIMES)
Young athletes are practicing too hard in just one sport, increasing the risk of injuries and burnout. New guidelines urge parents to reduce the intensity. Click here to learn more.
Books
STOLEN BASES: WHY AMERICAN GIRLS DON’T PLAY BASEBALL
The author of Stolen Bases says there is no reason women and girls cannot play baseball. Yet women’s participation in the sport comes at a high social cost. The author explores why baseball continues to be a “island of privilege” for men when, in reality, baseball is a sport that should be open for all.
PLAYING WITH THE BOYS: WHY SEPARATE IS NOT EQUAL IN SPORTS
Playing with the Boys offers relevant information critical to understanding the role of gender in sports. The authors not only define the specifics of the problem but also ask questions associated with the formulation of gender roles.
THE FRAILTY MYTH: WOMEN APPROACHING PHYSICAL EQUALITY
The Frailty Myth provides the reader with a eye opening and informative look at how young girls, and women in general, are socially and culturally conditioned to live in relation to men.
Health & Safety
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT A CONCUSSION (MAYO HEALTH CLINIC)
A brief guide for parents and coaches