As I reflect on my journey in the sports industry on National Women in Sports Day, I’m reminded of the pure joy and curiosity I felt as a little girl—whether I was tagging along to my dad’s basketball tournaments or sitting at home glued to Shaqtin’ A Fool. Back then, I couldn’t have imagined how those moments would spark a lifelong passion for sports and lead me to where I am today.
What started as casual exposure developed into a purposeful career, giving me the chance to work with some of the most competitive organizations across the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS, MiLB, USL, and Division I athletics. Along the way, I’ve leaned on lessons of persistence, adaptability, and hard work—skills that have opened doors and helped me thrive in this fast-paced industry.
A huge part of my growth has come from the mentorship of incredible women in sports. Sash-Sha Collier, assistant athletic trainer at UNC Chapel Hill, has been a guiding light, teaching me how to attack every opportunity with discipline and find my voice in a male-dominated field. Janese Malone and I would have hour-long phone calls where she was a shoulder to cry on but also gave great advice when I needed it the most. Janese is currently in New Orleans, living out her wildest dreams as an assistant athletic trainer for the Philadelphia Eagles and is on the verge of winning a Super Bowl ring. These women are not only some of the hardest-working women I know, but they are also so selfless, disciplined, and loving.
I’ve also had the privilege of learning from powerhouse leaders like Dionna Wilder, Chief Revenue Officer at the Nashville Predators, whose bold leadership and vision inspire me daily. Alexis Bray, Director of Ticketing at Tennessee State University and my soror, is a trailblazer whose drive and unwavering support motivate me constantly. Carly Lyons, my former supervisor at the Memphis Grizzlies and now Director of Promotions and Regional Marketing, has always pushed me to reach higher and pursue excellence.
These women—Sasha, Janese, Dionna, Alexis, and Carly—are more than mentors; they’re pioneers. They break barriers, challenge the status quo, and make space for the next generation of women in sports to rise. Their influence is a gift I’ll never take for granted.
National Women in Sports Day is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and how much further we can go. It’s a celebration of the women who have paved the way, the ones breaking barriers now, and those who will lead in the future. It’s a call to keep pushing forward, creating opportunities, and making sure young girls see that their dreams are valid and achievable.
I’m proud to be part of this movement, inspired by the women who’ve poured into me and determined to do the same for those who come next. Today, let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and keep building a future where women in sports continue to thrive and break new ground.