In a powerful and heartfelt response to recent disrespectful comments about women in sport, Lucy and Kel took an extraordinary stand – and the community rallied behind them in an overwhelming wave of support.

On air, Lucy Holmes addressed the controversy surrounding radio broadcaster Marty Shergold’s offensive remarks about the Matildas, emphasising the importance of lifting women up rather than tearing them down. Holmes passionately celebrated the strength, dedication, and inspiration that women in sport bring – from the Matildas and AFLW players to young girls playing in local clubs every weekend.

“We want our daughters to know their dreams matter and their hard work is worth it,” said Holmes. “That’s why we’re putting our money where our mouth is. An we are covering sports fees for girls this term – because we believe in their future and the importance of keeping them in sport.”

The response was unprecedented. Phone lines melted down for two hours as families called in, sharing their daughters’ passion for sport and the barriers they faced. Inspired by the initiative, numerous local businesses stepped forward to donate thousands towards covering even more girls’ season fees.

Earlier in the show, Lucy and Kel spoke with three remarkable professional sportswomen who started their journeys as young girls with big dreams: Milly Illingworth, professional cricket player for the Renegades; Maja Markovski, professional A-League soccer player for Melbourne Victory; and Asha Hinton, a third-generation award-winning female umpire. Their stories served as a reminder of how vital support at the grassroots level is in shaping the future of women’s sport.

As the calls poured in, TheLight was able to cover numerous girls’ sports fees for the season, ensuring that financial barriers wouldn’t stand in the way of young athletes chasing their dreams.

“We see you, we support you, and we’re cheering you on every step of the way,” Holmes declared.

Bek M –  My gosh this morning’s show has been amazing to listen to! I am so happy this is getting spoken about! My three teens all play sport and yesterday my daughter came home saying she didn’t want to play anymore. It was so random to me because I hadn’t heard about this other station and what was said. It took a bit of prodding but Maegan was the one to tell me what was said. We don’t listen to other stations but it was talked about all day at school. I am so sad for Maegan and other girls who think that what was said is correct. Bugger that guy saying what he said!

Michelle E – Thank you for the conversations you’ve opened up this morning. Driving my two youngest daughters to school just now (11yo and 9yo) and my 9yo asked “why are they just talking about girls in sport?” And so I explained to them what was said on the other station and how important it is for them to not listen to the messages the world may tell them. I explained that a throw away comment by a man may discourage some girls and women from participating in sports or may make them devalue themselves, but not to listen to opinions like that. Only to champion each other…male or female…not tear each other down. Thank you!

Angela C – Gosh I love you guys so much!!!! Girls are amazing!!! Sport is amazing. Girls in sport are super super amazing. As a mum of an amazing yr10 girl who plays basketball and was goalie in soccer the past 2yrs. I love this encouragement! Thank you thank you thank you!!!

Allison D -Loved hearing the passion this morning for supporting our next generation of women!

Trina B-  I’ve had to pull over, I’m crying so much hearing you… Thank you.