Author Description

"The memory of a strong woman is a sanctuary...." And so begins our story. It's 1983. Teacher Bailey Crawford and a bunch of rag tag girls are about to make history as their school's first, and only, state champions. But few in town care; they're only girls, after all. It's not until twenty-five years later in 2008 when new coach Reynalda Wallace discovers their story and recognition for the champs finally arrives. In the process, Rey learns how much of her own life--past and present--is bound to those first athletes whose struggle she never knew existed. Until now. --------------------- The novel moves between 1983 and 2008 as the two coaches' stories progress, capturing the impact Title IX legislation had on one mid-western town. It is a unique literary contribution to both women's fiction and the ordinarily male-dominated sports genre as it celebrates women's friendships against the backdrop of sport history. It is a story for everyone--from soccer dads and college coaches to professional athletes, high school competitors and the many women and men who support them. The incredible championship of the U.S.A. Women's Soccer Team at the June 2015 FIFA World Cup confirmed the sport's popularity and the growing impact of women athletes as role models. When Girls Became Lions continues the celebration of both. What others are saying: "Absolutely love this great read about women in sports! Contemporary fiction with women athletes at the center of the narrative is long overdue." --Julie Foudy, USA Soccer, ESPN "Finally, a novel about the beautiful game and the girls who just wanted a chance to play the world's most favorite sport." Jo and Val penned a great story about the end results of many sacrifices and the true benefits of sport--fun, competition, purpose, perseverance, teamwork, friendships and the love of the game." --Amanda Cromwell, Head Women's Soccer Coach, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) "When Girls Became Lions is an inspiring novel that w