Real Girl of the Year (2008)

Found this the other day, trying to find someone who makes hockey clothes for American Girl dolls (nothing exists, making me wish I knew how to sew because I'd be all over that). American Girl had this "Real Girl of the Year" award, looks like it was just in play in 2007 and 2008, which is a shame. Anyway, one of the winners in 2008 was a hockey player, Ryan:

Ryan in her hockey gear

Last summer Ryan was invited to practice with a boys select team. When she first skated out on the ice, they all just stared at her. During drills, boys would cut in front of her. She persevered and after they saw how well she could skate, they all started talking to her. Even though it was very uncomfortable for Ryan, she stuck with it because she knew it was a unique opportunity to improve—and to prove that she belongs on the ice, too.

I seriously don't have anything else to say except AWESOME.

 Photo and info yanked from right here.