"I am a woman in sports." Say that again.
February 1st, 2023 is National Girls & Women in Sports Day. As someone who just entered the sports industry about six months ago, I often have to reassure myself that I fit into this category. It doesn't matter whether you are an athlete, employee, full-time, part-time or freelancing. It counts and what you're doing matters. I am a woman in sports.
I recently did a 'branding' shoot for my page, it was time for some updated photos of myself. In 2023 one of my biggest goals is to work on building a brand that is not only focused on my photos, but focused on me. That includes posting more pictures of my face, but also speaking my mind about experiences I've had and things I want to accomplish. One of the most important parts of being a woman in sports is representation. I don't want to quietly pursue my dreams and go through the challenges alone. I want to put it all out there, good and bad. I want to tell stories and share information to help and inspire others.
“surround yourself with people who
see your value, and remind you of it.”
There are so many women in this industry, specifically for photography, that I've been inspired by and they do that not only through their images, but in the way they represent themselves. To be a strong role model for girls and women in sports is something I hope to achieve. To thrive in this industry, I truly believe that half the battle is where you put yourself. The rooms you are in the, the company around you. Who are you working with? How we, as women, are treated in this industry is so important and I felt it was key to highlight the people and places that have treated me so well.
the ones i have surrounded myself with
At this shoot I wore a few different outfits to have some variety, but I specifically chose to take a few photos in my hockey jersey. For those who don't know, I am a content creator for the University of Cincinnati Men's Ice Hockey team. In September, I came to their opening game to take photos, not knowing that it would lead to anything. By November, they welcomed me to the team and gave me a title. I wanted to wear the jersey to showcase the first team I have ever worked exclusively with, but also as an homage and form of appreciation for what it's been like being one of their media team members.
I consider myself so lucky that the first team I will have ever worked for is as wonderful as this one. From the start, I have felt not only respected, but extremely supported in my endeavors both within and outside of their operations. I am grateful for the coaches and players who value my work and opinions, who cheer me on when I get cool opportunities like working at NHL games, and who put in the extra effort to make me feel safe and included as the only girl on an away game trip in North Dakota.
The list could go on and on. I cannot say thank you enough. They have made it clear that I am a true member of the team. This jersey is a representation of what the experience of being a woman in sports should be.
my family & friends
I also wanted to say thank you to my husband, family and friends who have been rooting for me non-stop since August when I started this. Without your constant support and words of affirmation, I think the imposter syndrome and anxiety that comes with this role would have caused me to quit not long after I started. My husband is a pillar behind me that most people don't get to see. Whenever I feel anxious about a new opportunity or situation, he is the one encouraging me to go anyways. Do it anyways. Although I know I am succeeding due to my own hard work, his role in that should not go unnoticed.
The confidence I have gained in this process is not only from my own doing, but thanks to the support system behind me. Six months ago I would not have stepped in front of the camera. While I still feel awkward having my picture taken, I love these photos so much. A special thank you to one of my best friends, Carly Miller, for taking these. I trusted her with my camera to take these and she knocked it out of the park. Another special thanks to my dear friend, Emily Threm, who gifted me the most thoughtful handmade gift I have ever received. She painted and made the jean jacket I wore in these photos. She even included a QR code patch that leads to my Instagram. It is such a special item, I had to show it off.
My family and friends have made it very clear that they are huge fans of these photos and were impatiently waiting for me to share them.
Thank you for reading this far and thank you for supporting women in sports. It matters. #SupportWomenInSports
