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 . It was a remarkable decision : According to research by the Women 's Sports Foundation , by age 14 , girls are dropping out of sports at twice the rate of boys . 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 .
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 .