Laura Hilliard : The Douglas gold medal for all - around gymnastics is highly significant . She says it sends a powerful message to young girls that they can seek spectacular goals . She -- and her single life -- showed the world she was willing to die to get there . Hilliard : By comparison , girls drop sports at twice rate of boys . Gabby 's example could change that .
Wendy Hilliard : Gabby Douglas gold medal for all-around gymnastics is highly significant . She says it sends a powerful message to young girls that they can seek spectacular goals . She -- and her single mom -- showed the world she was willing to sacrifice to get there . Hilliard : By 14 , girls drop sports at twice rate of boys . Gabby 's example could change that .