New Bar Celebrating Women’s Sports Set to Open in Austin
A groundbreaking sports bar dedicated entirely to collegiate and professional women’s sports is launching next month in Austin.
AUSTIN, Texas – A unique sports bar focusing exclusively on women’s sports is set to debut in the Austin area.
The owners envision it as more than just a venue for watching games; it’s a movement aimed at empowering and uniting women.
What You Should Know:
The new establishment, named 1972, will be located on Guadalupe Street, taking over the former Moody’s Kitchen and Bar space, conveniently close to the University of Texas at Austin campus.
This name pays homage to 1972, the year Title IX was enacted, profoundly influencing the landscape of women’s athletics.
The pub will exclusively broadcast collegiate and professional women’s athletic events across its screens.
Renovations are currently underway, with plans for large screens displaying women’s sports year-round, walls adorned with signed memorabilia, a diverse menu, and an inviting atmosphere for all fans, including men.
The grand opening is anticipated in March, perfectly timed for the NCAA basketball tournament.
Inspiration Behind the Venue:
Co-owners Debra Hallum and Marlene Duplessis have a clear vision.
“Our goal is to provide a platform for female athletes and women’s sports, elevating them and nurturing interest and passion for these events,” Hallum expressed.
The concept was inspired by similar sports bars in Portland and Seattle, but Hallum and Duplessis found a void in their own community.
“Whenever we wanted to catch a women’s game, we frequently had to plead with the bar staff to turn it on. And when they did, the sound was often muted, or they switched to a men’s game at the first opportunity,” Duplessis recalled.
Why This Matters:
This establishment will mark the first sports bar in Austin solely devoted to women’s athletics.
“It’s significant for us; there are numerous sports bars around campus, but finally having a venue dedicated exclusively to women’s sports fosters a sense of community,” stated UT freshman Eva Lin.
“Women’s sports are dynamic and athletic, providing entertainment that rivals any men’s sport. People are becoming more receptive to this and are beginning to appreciate how exciting and engaging it can be,” Hallum added.
Additionally, the owners see this venture as part of a larger movement.
“We view this as a movement, and we are proud to be part of it. While we didn’t start this trend, we aim to sustain it and hope to inspire others to join us,” Duplessis concluded.
Source: Information gathered from reporting by FOX 7 Austin’s Jenna King.
