Women have traditionally been called the “weaker sex.” However, Lauren Silberman believes she just may be strong enough to secure a place in the NFL.
On Tuesday, Feb. 19, NFL.com announced that the 28-year-old is the first woman in history to register for an NFL regional scouting combine, which features players who weren’t invited to the main combine currently being held in Indianapolis.
Though it may be a long shot, Silberman has decided to compete against college kickers in New Jersey on March 2 and 3 for the chance to advance to a Dallas super-regional combine in April.
While Silberman has never been a football kicker, she has clearly proven that she does have strong athletic ability. Reportedly, she was a club soccer player at the University of Wisconsin.
It seems that Silberman has a strong confidence in skills, and legitimately believes she just may earn herself a spot. However, the young woman knows what she is up against, and is simply excited about the opportunity either way. She didn't realize that she was making history in the process.
In an interview with NFL.com, the NFL hopeful said, "I was not aware that I was the first female registrant. I was actually hoping that the 2012 historical milestone rule, to allow women to play, would prompt more women to attend tryouts this year. But for me, what's important is to finally have a chance to fulfill my dreams by trying out to play in the world's most competitive football league."
"The opportunity to attend this event could not be more exciting. Getting to meet interesting people and perfect my technique from others could not be more rewarding ... Regardless of the outcome of the tryout, I hope there is a way I can contribute and strengthen the league,” she continued.
Despite the odds, stranger things have happened. There is a first time for nearly everything, and just maybe, Silberman will be the one to pave the way for women in the NFL?
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