Ethiopian Sports Federation in North America

We Honor You, Ethiopian Women

To our mothers and sisters
To our wives and daughters
To our care givers and friends
To our mentors and teachers
To our heroines and leaders
Thank you Ethiopian Women
In all facets of life
For the great example you have always been
For the great compassion and wisdom you have always shown

ESFNA is pleased to dedicate this year's tournament to commemorate our collective gratitude and admiration to Ethiopian women. From our homes, to our schools, our hospitals and battle fields, Ethiopian women have shown great resilience and courage in the face of what seemed to be insurmountable adversities.

As mothers, they went without so their children could. As wives, they persevered the challenges of a male dominated society to be great examples of courage in all our homes and neighborhoods. As daughters and sisters they endured humiliation and modern-day slavery as domestic workers in the Arab world so that their parents and siblings could have a better life at home. At the battle of Adwa, they fought alongside their male colleagues to achieve a world renowned victory. On the athletic arena, our sisters are making history at every turn. From Deratu Tulu and Fatuma Roba to Trunesh Dibaba, Meseret Defar, and Tiki Gelana, our sisters are a force to contend with. ESFNA had the privilege of honoring Deratu Tulu and Fatuma Roba as our guests of honor in previous years and this year has extended its invitation to the London Olympic gold medallists, Tirunesh Dibaba, Meseret Defar, and Tiki Gelana. On the African soccer fields, our women are trail blazers and registering great success continuing the legacy of “Etu Mella Mechie.”

The story of Ethiopian women has always been a story of great sacrifice. ESFNA is humbled and yet over joyed to celebrate and acknowledge the tremendous contributions of Ethiopian women. ESFNA is also eternally indebted to countless entrepreneurial Ethiopian women who have made our vending area one of ESFNA's main attractions.

ESFNA is delighted to hold its 2013 events at the beautiful University of Maryland Byrd Stadium. Come and join us in celebrating and saying thank you to Ethiopian women across the globe.

The one and only ESFNA, Bringing Ethiopians Together!
Often imitated, but never duplicated.

Getachew Tesfaye
President
Ethiopian Sports Federation in North America