I think the game is evolving and we are seeing more female players enter the game. There was a time when poker was considered a game men play but that dynamic is shifting which is great for the game.
I think online poker has opened the door to allow more people who were interested in the game but did not feel comfortable going to a casino, or joining an established game, to learn and enjoy the game. This is helps for players to feel more comfortable playing in a live setting which can be intimidating for new players, especially when you might feel like the "outsider" because you feel you do not fit the typical norm.
Televised poker has also helped to showcase some very talented female players. Players like Harmon, Violette, Russo, Ho, Johnson and a bunch of others have proven that women belong at the table and are a force to be reckoned with.
So why don't we see more women at these bigger events? I think a lot of factors play into that. I think men in general are drawn to competitive activities so you will see a larger pool to generate great players. Same reason that a large urban school is much more likely to win a sporting event over a small rural school. There is simply a greater chance of finding more good players in a larger group.
I also heard a report of women in the workplace are less likely to apply for a job they do not feel qualified for than men. I am not saying that women are not qualified to play poker, but this same concept may keep many capable female players from entering the poker world. As a side note, this is one reason I typically give women in a poker game more respect, especially in live play. Most I have encountered are above average players.
Finally, I think men need to ensure that we are making poker a welcome environment for female players. This game is still dominated population wise by male players. We should ensure that we are not alienating people from the game for reasons outside of improving the integrity of the game. (removing cheaters, etc.) Unfortunately there are still many male players that do not think that a woman belongs at a poker table and will try to intimidate them. I find this not only ridiculous because you are possibly driving away a person from the game, but is that how you would want your mother, wife, or daughter treated? Would you want to be treated that way should the roles be reversed?
I love the fact that more women are getting involved in the game and think it enriches the game. I think many women bring a different approach to the game that creates new challenges for players. Those challenges are the reason that we are all drawn to this game to begin with which is "How do I outplay my opponent?"
Good Luck to everyone at the tables.
