Studies show that participating in sports is one of the most effective ways to enhance the physical and mental health of teenage girls. So this school year, Secret and the Women's Sports Foundation are launching a nationwide search for girls who not only excel at sports, but also embody the characteristics of healthy self-esteem.

Coaches, teachers, athletic directors, parents and peers are encouraged to nominate their favorite teen girl who participates in school-sponsored or open amateur sports. One girl will be selected from each of the 50 United States, and Secret and the Women's Sports Foundation will narrow the field to five finalists. From those finalists, a winner will be chosen in the summer of 2002. The Secret Sportsgirl of the Year's school or team will be awarded $5,000; the four additional finalists? schools/teams will each win $1,000 and the remaining 45 state finalists? schools/team will receive $250. In addition, the five finalists will be awarded a trip to New York City in the fall of 2002 to attend the Foundation's Annual Salute to Women in Sports Awards Dinner, where they will be recognized.

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