Recently, ESPN announced Beth Mowins, an ESPN college football broadcaster, will be the first woman in 30 years to undertake play-by-play duties for NFL games.

Though this is a big step in the broadcasting industry, it should not have taken this long.

Mowins will team up with former NFL Coach Rex Ryan for the second part of the season-opening Monday Night Football doubleheader when the Los Angeles Chargers visit the Denver Broncos September 11.

When I am covering local high school sports across the county, I enjoy interacting with the fans and parents.

Sometimes, I feel as if the mothers know more about the school’s history and statistics than I do.

Women have recently been seen officiating sports in the county and in the professional leagues.

Women hold some of the highest jobs in sports companies, like ESPN Senior Vice President Stephanie Druley.

A woman’s voice is will enhance the broadcasting experience for viewers and listeners across the nation.

Perspective is what keeps the broadcasting industry alive, and the perspective a woman can bring a breath of fresh air.

As I grew fond of the industry, I worked diligently with many female coworkers in college and learned more than I ever thought I would from them.

As I watch sports with some of my female friends, who don’t have a vast knowledge of the events taking place, they surprise me with questions and a different perspective that, at times, keeps me on my toes and engaged.

To me, women deserve the same opportunities in every industry that men do, and I believe our country is headed in that direction, especially in sports.

We have come a long way toward equality, though we still have a long way to go.