One of the most special days of the year for female athletes is right around the corner. Next Wednesday, February 7, is National Girls and Women in Sports Day. This year's theme is "No Stopping Us Now!"

What is National Girls and Women in Sports Day? Started in 1987, it's a day to celebrate, appreciate, and learn more about athletics for females. It is also a time to encourage younger girls to get involved in sports.

It is celebrated on a national scale in Washington, D.C., where a long list of respected female athletes will gather for a Congressional luncheon and to talk about current issues in athletics. WNBA stars Lisa Leslie and Nikki McCray will respresent the women's basketball world.

More importantly, local communities will be marking the day with special activities geared toward their particular needs and interests. Some are hosting clinics for younger athletes, others are putting on special awards banquets, and still others are scheduling exciting competitions around the date. Here's a sampling of what's going on in a couple different places:

In Orlando, Florida, the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex is hosting a fun day of sports clinics, which will include both traditional sports and wacky activities, such as the noodle throw and sponge race.

In Harlem, New York City, 60 girls will be gathering in Central Park to try their hand at the sport of ice hockey. Canadian National Women's Ice Hockey Team veteran Angela James will lead the clinic.

In Pocatello, Idaho, a celebration will take place at Idaho State University's women's track and field competition.

In Chicago, the Willye White Winners Dinner-Banquet will go on, in which 95 female athletes from 95 schools in Chicago will be honored.

In Kennebunk, Maine, the Sea Road School is hosting a mother-daughter basketball tournament.

In Stony Brook, N.Y., 40 University at Stony Brook female student-athletes will run clinics for girls ages 6-11 in volleyball, soccer, basketball, softball, and athletic training. The school will also host a special awards ceremony for local high school female athletes who have demonstrated superior leadership qualities, academic excellence and community service.

TELL US ABOUT WHAT YOUR SCHOOL OR COMMUNITY IS DOING! SEND US YOUR NGWSD NEWS AT info@gballmag.com.

And, for immediate info about the fast-approaching day, visit the Women's Sports Foundation Web site.