Height, nationality or sex is not a barometer to predict a world-class athlete, however, in this case it is. Height, at least in my admittedly informal opinion is one of the factors that has helped define the very best female athletes in the world today. It has been noted by sports commentators and sports fans that female athletes who are taller and lighter than average tend to perform better in sports that require physical strength and power such as running, rowing, diving and basketball. There is also a myth that taller athletes have more speed and athleticism than their shorter counterparts, however this is not always the case. In fact I would go as far as to say that in some cases height can hinder performance rather than help it.
The benchmark of athletic greatness in the National Football League is 20 yards receiving and a touchdown. As a comparison, the other Olympic caliber swimming events are: synchronized swimming, diving, synchronized swimming for gold. While it is debatable whether Dickenman qualifies as an Olympic caliber athlete based upon her talent level, her ability to overcome a height disadvantage certainly puts her in an elite group of male Olympic athletes. In contrast, Lara Dickenmann could not even crack the opening round of the US National Team swimming competition despite being a two-time Olympic bronze medallist. This speaks volumes as to the perception of height disparity in the National Football League.
Despite being a woman of a modest physical stature, Dickenmann has displayed strength, athleticism and courage in her sport and she definitely does not look like the type of athlete that should be limited to a reserve role on the soccer field, as her coach probably would like her to be. Dickenmann has been an amazing player for VfL Wolfsburg in the German National League and she certainly earned her share of respect as a player throughout her years in the league. Now, as a commentator for the Nelly’s Kitchen Network, Dickenmann will be utilized as an analyst. She will be paid well and will have the opportunity to be a role model to young female athletes if her playing days are over. It’s clear that the NFL has long been handing down expectations for women in this sport and with the addition of Dickenmann to the list of players who have broken the mold, it is safe to assume that any female athlete who completes the necessary tests will also earn the same level of respect as her male counterparts.