Women Leading Baltimore’s Post

*Current & relevant statistics are an important part of determining next steps. BIPOC athletes are less likely to be coached by an individual of a similar racial makeup. This is also to say that women are less likely to be coached by another woman. It is important for administrators to acknowledge how this may impact a SA sense of belonging, definition of success and overall exposure to various leadership styles.

As our youth athletes begin another season, we want to recognize the profound impact that participation in youth sports programs can have on future success. Research consistently shows that involvement in sports not only fosters physical health but also instills invaluable life skills like teamwork, leadership, discipline, and resilience. Did you know that many top executives have a background in sports? From basketball to softball, the lessons learned on the field often translate into the boardroom. According to a recent study, over 90% of Fortune 500 CEOs participated in varsity-level athletics during their school years. At Della Lamb, we've witnessed the transformative power of youth sports. Our programs not only provide opportunities for children to engage in physical activity but also serve as platforms for personal growth and development. We are thrilled to share a special testimonial from Chris Rosson, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Kansas City, who grew up a Della kid! “Growing up in Northeast KC, I have many fond memories at Della Lamb. My basketball team practiced and played there regularly, and having a safe refuge away from what often felt like a turbulent world around me was truly a gift and a luxury. When I look back, lessons I learned with the community I formed on the court at Della Lamb shaped the person I am today and served as a foundation for a life of service to others." As we continue to champion the importance of youth sports, let's remember that investing in our youth today lays the foundation for a brighter tomorrow. Join us in supporting initiatives that empower young athletes to thrive on and off the field! #YouthSports #Leadership #SuccessStories #CommunityImpact

This article is a must-read for understanding and eliminating the insidious cultural biases perpetuating racism. The recent women's college basketball championship highlighted how Black and white athletes are portrayed differently. Despite South Carolina's victory and the achievement of Black women and girls, the media focused on the defeated Iowa team and their star, Caitlin Clark, who were mostly white. This relegation of the true champions to the sidelines of their triumph is a powerful example of systemic racism in our media. These biases are invisible to white people until we have someone stick us into the shoes of our fellow people of color. #racism #equity #diversityequityandinclusion #antiracism Thanks Aparna R. for sharing this insightful article.

“While the number of women coaching women’s sports has increased in the past decade, Black women continue to lag behind most other groups. During the 2021-22 school year, 399 Black women coached women’s NCAA sports teams in Divisions I, II and III compared with 3,760 white women and 5,236 white men.” “In women’s NCAA basketball, a sport made up of 30% Black athletes, Black women made up 12% of head coaches across all divisions during the 2021-22 season, according to the NCAA’s demographics database.” “Fourteen Black women led women’s basketball teams across 65 Power Five programs this past season — up one from 2021. That’s less than 22% of the total in a sport that was played by more Black athletes (40.7%) than any other race in Division I, according to a report with data from the 2020-21 season.”

What sports do you practice? "A survey of executive women found that 80% played sports growing up, and 69% said sports helped them develop leadership skills that contributed to their professional success." When we were kids playing sports, we were actually building the foundation for our future success: teamwork, perseverance, discipline, and work ethics. Studies have shown a direct connection between girls who play sports and their achievements in higher education and employment. While I didn't play sports growing up, it's never too late to start, and build this discipline. "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit" - Aristotle And guess what? When you have that athletic mindset—determination, and a never-give-up attitude—you can apply it to your personal finances. It's all about having the confidence to make smart money moves, and building your mindful wealth.

To my fellow athletes—whether you played D1 or just grew up loving the game, I want to share something exciting. Next Thursday, 10/10, I’m moderating a panel with some incredible women who are shaping the future of sports. We’ll be talking about the three major phases of an athlete’s journey: ➮ Youth sports ➮ College ➮ Professional The conversation will dive into how NIL, social media, and the rise of female sports are reshaping the opportunities and challenges athletes face today. I’m particularly passionate about the collegiate athlete experience. I understand firsthand how the pressures from institutions like Stanford can push athletes toward perfectionism. Where even the smallest mistakes can feel like they’ll cost you everything: ➮ Your value on the team ➮ Your playing time ➮ Your future opportunities We carry this mindset beyond sports, and it often affects our success in ways we don’t even realize. 🎯 That’s why this conversation matters. The shifts in the sports industry will significantly shape the future experiences and opportunities for athletes at all levels. For those of you in LA, come to the panel next Thursday in Santa Monica! It’s going to be an amazing in-person event at an art gallery, and the discussion will be a game-changer. #D1Athlete #NIL #WomenInSports #SportsBusiness #StanfordAlumni #AthleteLife

Well worth deep reflection. Many layers here.

During last week's Tomorrow's Women TODAY "Women in Sports" event, I was left reflecting on Boston Renegades quarterback, Allison Cahill's, powerful words about her male counterparts in the NFL, "I don't envy the fame. I envy their ability to dedicate their entire life to their craft." Allison's words shed light on a stark reality within the sports world. Her observation strikes a chord beyond mere recognition and fame, delving into the heart of the challenges faced by female athletes. Cahill's poignant remark underscores the systemic hurdles that hinder female athletes from fully immersing themselves in their sport. While talent and dedication are abundant, the juggling act between athletic pursuits, societal expectations, familial responsibilities, and financial constraints remains a formidable obstacle. Her sentiment serves as a rallying cry for increased support and opportunities for female athletes. It's a reminder that achieving gender equality in sports requires more than just leveling the playing field—it demands a concerted effort to provide the resources and backing necessary for every athlete, regardless of gender, to thrive. In acknowledging the accomplishments of male athletes, let's not overlook the incredible talent and perseverance of female athletes like Allison Cahill. Their stories serve as a catalyst for change, inspiring us to dismantle barriers and foster a more inclusive and equitable sports environment for generations to come. Thanks to Meredith Adamczyk, Katy McKeough, @Tamara Brown Erin McDermott, and our friends at Harvard Varsity Club for partnering with us on this important conversation. #Thisistomorrowswomentoday #advancetogether #empoweringwomenthroughconnection #EqualOpportunity #SupportFemaleAthletes

Leadership skills are universal and transferable in business. To attract and retain top talent, remember the three Cs: Cultivate, Care, and Compensate. The impact of these principles is clearly visible in women's collegiate sports. By providing equitable opportunities for student-athletes and coaches, women's sports have seen a 60% increase in TV ratings, with average viewings for women's games 43% higher than men's. Scoring records are being shattered, athletes are choosing to stay and continue their education, and for the first time ever, women's elite sports will generate over $1 billion in revenue in 2024. This is just the beginning of what happens when you recognize talent with opportunity. Tonight, be a part of history as 10 million viewers tune in to witness the shift in leadership and opportunity in women's sports. Take notes! 📝

An inspiring and hopeful study was released on September 9 by the Women's Sports Foundation. The key conclusion: If you want to build leadership skills in a girl, get her into sports. My favorite insight - "Finally, in a moment of multiple and polarizing national and global challenges, this research reminds parents, coaches, teachers, neighbors, extended family members, and elected officials that the possibilities for our collective futures emerge from how well we nurture our youth. Sports are more than play. The serious task of leadership development and cultivating confidence and self-reliance in the next generation of young girls can be tackled through maintaining accessible and healthy youth teams in communities nationwide. The lessons learned in everyday tasks shape the leadership possibilities for tomorrow. Indeed, our collective health and well-being depend on it." This new study builds on research released in 2020 that found 94% of C-Suite women had played sports at some point in their youth. Find the executive summary here: https://lnkd.in/gg8szz-M It's worth the read. Long live Title IX!