body
WHEREAS, sports are an essential and important part of our society; the world of sports can increase our understanding of equality, human rights, child development, standards for health and fitness, teamwork, goal-setting, the pursuit of excellence in performance and other achievement-oriented behaviors--critical skills necessary for success; and,
WHEREAS, women's sports in particular play a vital role for girls' development and equality; studies show that girls who are involved in athletics often do better in school and are more confident, less likely to be involved in an unwanted pregnancy; more likely to get better grades in school, and more likely to graduate than girls who do not play sports; and,
WHEREAS, in an economic environment where the quality of our children's lives will be dependent on two-income families, girls cannot be less prepared for the highly competitive workplace than boys; 80% of the female executives at Fortune 500 companies identified themselves as former 'tomboys' who played sports; and,
WHEREAS, the University of Pittsburgh, CONSOL Energy Center and VisitPITTSBURGH have submitted a bid to host the NCAA Women's Final Four; and,
WHEREAS, the benefits of this exciting opportunity extend well beyond the tournament itself; the City of Pittsburgh would utilize the event in ways that build for the future, leaving a lasting legacy for girls' and women's basketball in our City's neighborhoods - from the youth level through high school; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Pittsburgh would ensure that event participants and visitors are able to take advantage of Pittsburgh's amenities and opportunities, with utmost attention paid to public safety and security; and,
WHEREAS, the second largest city in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh is undergoing an incredible transformation and has been nationally recognized as a leader in livability, sustainability, business growth, and neighborhood revitalization; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Pittsburgh, in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh, CONSOL Energy Center and VisitPittsburgh understand the logistical and financial responsibilities involved with hosting the Final Four and are well-prepared to showcase our city's hospitality and share the positive advances and innovations coming out of all of our 90 neighborhoods; and,
WHEREAS, it would be the City of Pittsburgh's great honor to host the NCAA's Women's Division Final Four Tournament.
title
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh do hereby extend an invitation to the NCAA Women's Division I Basketball Tournament in the City of Pittsburgh.