Plenty of ambition for Brooke Henderson as LPGA season comes into full swing

In her first full season on the LPGA, Brooke Henderson’s career has grown by a quantum leap. Fulfilling her promise as a world-class golfer, she has risen over 200 spots in the world golf rankings, sitting fifth overall. Henderson sits in distinguished company among the top five, which includes American competitors Lexi Thompson and Stacy Lewis, New Zealand’s Lydia Ko and South Korea’s Inbee Park.As a side note, she is ninth on the list of earnings, having won more than $450,000 USD in prize money.

Having competed in 11 events this season, Henderson has managed an incredible Top 10 finishes on eight occasions, while her scoring average (70.02) ranks fifth overall. With ambitions to participate in 30 events before season’s end, there is no disputing her high energy.

Taking into account that her 19th birthday is still four months away, she has handled the expectations and accompanying pressures with the grace and dignity of a veteran golfer. Another noteworthy aspect to Henderson’s maturity is the fact that she has found a mentor in fellow Canadian Alena Sharp. Also a competitor on the LPGA Tour, Sharp (who is nearly twice Henderson’s age) has been like a big sister to Henderson, graciously providing her with insights about life on the tour.

During the summer of 2015, Henderson became the third-youngest winner to win an LPGA tournament, capturing the Cambia Portland Classic. Winning by an impressive eight shots, the bigger victory may have been the honor of full Tour membership afterwards. In the aftermath of such jubilation, Henderson also found time to sign an endorsement deal with BMW, another sign that her star is on the rise.

Photo credit: Frank Gunn

With her sister Brittany, who is a competitor on the Symetra Tour (where Brooke partly played last season), the two recently returned to their hometown of Smiths Falls, Ontario. Both were on-hand for the Kevin Haime Kids to the Course Classic at Eagle Creek Golf Club, which was held after Mother’s Day.

In early February, Henderson experienced her best finish of the season, placing second at the Coates Golf Championship. She will be hoping for a similar finish in August at the Rio Summer Games, as golf tournament shall be contested for the first time at the Games since 1904.

Of note, the Rio Summer Games shall be wedged into quite a full golf schedule. Two weeks before Rio, one of golf’s majors shall be contested from July 28-31 as Henderson shall look for victory at the British Open. Should Henderson manage a podium finish in Rio, she will definitely be treated to a heroes welcome, as a pair of tournaments are scheduled to be held in Canada. Calgary shall be the host city for the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open, while Cambridge, Ontario is the backdrop for the Manulife Financial LPGA Classic.

Former New Hampshire superstar Kelly Paton to build on growing legacy of Western Mustangs

Over the last four seasons, the Western Mustangs women’s ice hockey program rose to unprecedented heights. From the emergence of Kelly Campbell and Katelyn Gosling as All-Canadian superstars, to an OUA conference title and the Golden Path Trophy in 2015, both program firsts, such a performance helped extend Western University’s athletic reputation far beyond its dominant football presence. In the last two seasons, the Mustangs won an astounding 60 games, compared to just 17 losses and 10 ties.

As the program continues to grow, its transition has included a new head coach for the 2016-17 season. Having served this past season as an associate coach with the Mustangs, Kelly Paton rises to a new role as head coach. Adding to this momentum is the fact that she will be joining Shaun Reagan of the Waterloo Warriors as members of Rachel Flanagan’s coaching staff for the 2017 Winter Universiade. This adds to Paton’s already impressive international experience, which included a role on the coaching staff of the Canadian U18 national team for the 2014-15 campaign.

One of the greatest players to have donned the New Hampshire Wildcats jersey, Paton was not only a finalist for the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award in her senior season, she would forego an opportunity to be part of Hockey Canada’s Under-22 player camp in order to be part of history. Of note, she would play at Fenway Park against Northeastern in the first outdoor women’s game in NCAA history.

In four sensational seasons with the Wildcats, Paton helped keep the club in contention for the national championship, amassing an astounding 162 points on the strength of 100 assists. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree, she currently sits 11th all-time in program scoring. As a senior, Paton was one of three finalists for the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award. This was part of a season that saw Paton earn New England Player of the Year honors, a nod to the First-Team All-Americans and a share of the Hockey East Player of the Year Award.

Before Paton returned home to southwestern Ontario to lay down her roots, she would extend her playing career to the professional ranks, competing for the famed ZSC Lions in Switzerland, capturing a league title in 2010-11, an accomplishment that Paton hopes to duplicate as a coach at the OUA level with the Mustangs next season.

Paton’s coaching experience also includes a stint as an assistant coach with the Mercyhurst Lakers in 2011-12, where she was joined by former player Delaney Collins, also serving on the coaching staff. The two were surrounded by one of the greatest collections of talent in NCAA history. The roster was highlighted by the presence of Christine Bestland, Bailey and Shelby Bram, conference MVP Kelley Steadman, Jess Jones, and Hillary Pattenden, who would break the NCAA record for most goaltending wins in a career. Although the Lakers were defeated by the Wisconsin Badgers in the NCAA tournament, it was a memorable season for Paton, which saw her gain a Masters of Science in Exercise Science

Bringing a wealth of knowledge to the Mustangs, which shall be crucial in maintaining its status as a national power, Paton inherits the position from David Barrett. Having served as head coach for two seasons, he is moving on in order to focus on his career at the Ivey Business School. As a side note, he shall remain available as an advisor. Undoubtedly, Paton’s sterling career should pay positive dividends with the Mustangs, allowing the program an edge in the ultra-competitive realm of recruiting, while bringing out the best in her players.

Prior to the Mustangs, Paton had a strong hockey presence in southwestern Ontario as both a player and coach. Raised in Woodstock, Ontario, she served as bench boss with the Provincial Women’s Hockey League’s London Devilettes from 2013-15. Amassing 10 wins and 28 points during the 2013-14 campaign, the Devilettes made a huge jump in the standings the following season. Under Paton’s tutelage, the club improved by 11 points, accumulating 16 wins, finishing 11th overall in the league standings. Of note, she had also played for the Devilettes before joining the University of New Hampshire’s team in 2006. Along with Paton, some of the notable alums include Amanda Shaw, Carolyne Prevost, Meghan Hunter, Hokey Langan and Amanda Mazzotta.

During her time coaching the Devilettes, there was a series of unique connections with Mazzotta. Not only did Mazzotta serve as the goaltending coach with the Devilettes program (which features numerous age groups), she spent one season in the same capacity with the Mustangs. The two would also work together with Hockey Canada’s national U18 team for the 2014-15 season. Paton served as a strength and conditioning coach while Mazzotta worked with the goaltenders.

Coincidentally, the pre-competition camp for the 2015 IIHF U18 Worlds was actually held in London, only serving to strengthen their local hockey legacies. The efforts of Paton and Mazzotta helped Canada gain a silver medal at the Worlds.

Paton inherits a team that had a strong showing in 2015-16, ranking fifth in the OUA in goals scored (61) and shots on net (681). In addition, the Mustangs would also rank third in PPG (17), first in power play opportunities (109) and second in penalty kill (90.6).

As the club featured 8 freshmen (five Devilettes on roster) on the roster, they shall be counted upon to play a bigger role for Paton next season. Among them will be April Clark, who played for Paton on the Devilettes. Another young player that will be expected to deliver is Anthea Lasis, who is poised to be the anchor on the Mustangs blueline unit.

Perhaps Paton’s biggest challenge shall be finding a goaltender. With the recent graduation of Kelly Campbell, one of the most accomplished in OUA history, she was a key factor in the Mustangs dominance as a top defensive unit. Even if the Mustangs struggle in her absence for the 2016-17 season, Paton should manage to recruit another top prospect to stand between the pipes in the following season.

Undoubtedly, there will be no shortage of leaders for Paton as she molds the new generation of Mustangs. Tia Kipfer, who once played for the NCAA’s Robert Morris Colonials will be entering her fourth season. Another pair of former NCAA players, Lyndsay Kirkham and Kendra Broad, both formerly with the Lindenwood Lady Lions shall be just as important. Having both reached double digits in points, Broad would tie with Katelyn Gosling for second in team scoring, trailing leader Brittany Clapham by one point, all positive signs for a future where Paton works towards maintaining the Mustangs status as a powerhouse in OUA women’s hockey.

Jenny Mac more than just another football player

As the 2016 female football season progresses, the theme of transition continues to be its definition. Despite the addition of several expansion teams in Legends Football League play, there is also the sullen subtraction of several superstars. With the New England Liberty part of the expansion class, their season held tremendous promise as it was spiced by the presence of a stunning, yet dedicated, protagonist.

Having recently made the visceral decision to hang up her helmet, Jenny Mac was poised to be one of the Liberty’s franchise players, whose leadership presence would have shouldered the burden of expectation to qualify for the postseason. With opening kickoff, Mac’s absence was significant for the Liberty. In their inaugural game, the squad suffered a 26-6 thumping on the road against a reinvented Omaha Heart franchise.

Considering that the New England Liberty continues to endure the expansion blues, Mac’s absence reminds fans what might have been. Of note, the Liberty are not the only team this season that has suffered from the impact of her loss. Having first established herself as a superstar with the Atlanta Steam, arguably the most successful expansion team in LFL history, the perennial contender experienced their own offseason filled with change.

Although the Steam has managed to retain a significant part of their leadership core, highlighted by Dakota Hughes, Leanne Hardin and Dina Wojowski, the first winner of the In the Trenches Award, the loss of Jodie Nettles to retirement and Jenny Mac to free agency altered the team’s composition. One of the great qualities about the Steam was the sense of family that existed within the team. Such sense was a key factor in the Steam qualifying for the 2014 Legends Cup final.

Undoubtedly, the loss of Nettles and Mac adds a feeling of loss for this great family. Both statuesque and competitive, Nettles was easily identified by her trademark tye-dye headbands, while Mac would begin an exceptional trend that added an exciting new dimension to the league and its personalities.

Known affectionately as the Skull Kid, Mac was truly one of the league’s originals. Gracing the gridiron with remarkable face painting motifs, it quickly propelled her into the rarified air of both trend setter and superstar. Capturing the imagination of both fans and teammates alike, it triggered a league-wide phenomenon that saw others emulate her unique style.

Steammate Leanne Hardin would adorn her stunning visage with red and black make-up akin to pro wrestling’s legendary Road Warriors. Seattle Mist superstar and 2015 league MVP Danika Brace would adopt a face paint style similar to former wrestling champion Ultimate Warrior. Eventually, it was not uncommon for at least one player on every team to adopt face-painting as a means of both intimidation and motivation.

As captivating as Mac became with her innovative use of face painting, she was far from being just a one-dimensional athlete. There was also a gridiron intensity that constantly provided her team with a chance to win, sending a powerful message.

Perhaps no such message was more evident throughout league circles than the brawl that defined one of the most electrifying postseason contests in league history. In what would prove to be the final contest in Jacksonville Breeze history, the 2014 Eastern Conference final brought out the feline bestiality on both sides.

One of the most iconic images of that scuffle between the Steam and the Breeze was Mac putting out her hand to signify stop towards one of the Breeze players. Amidst such chaos, the hand gesture would signify that Mac meant business, bringing a gradual cease to an otherwise volatile situation. As a side note, three members of the Breeze (Adrian Purnell, Dina Wojowski and Lauran Ziegler) would become Steammates in 2015. Coincidentally, the first match in Liberty history also resulted in a bench clearing brawl with the Omaha Heart, likely rekindling memories among hardcore fans, reminiscent of Mac’s presence.

While the 2016 season should have been the extension of Mac’s gridiron legacy, unfortunately, it was not meant to be. Earlier in the year, Mac was among the Eastern Conference stars that competed in the All-Fantasy Game in Guatemala. Considering that Mac proudly contributed to an Eastern Conference victory, no one could have foreseen that it would be her swan song.

Despite the reality of sport being one where no one is irreplaceable, there is something to be said about personalities and their impact on the field of play. Mac was a model teammate, dedicated to making her team better, while embodying the spirit of friendship exemplified by always having one’s back. Like so many other wondrous women whose hard work and sweat helped build the LFL, Mac made the game so much more enjoyable and the fans who saw her play will always be grateful.

Kaliya Johnson part of historic signing for Connecticut Whale

Fresh off a record-breaking season for the Boston College Eagles, one that saw the club enjoy an undefeated regular season, the first in Hockey East play to do so, blueliner Kaliya Johnson signed a one-year offer worth $13,000 with the NWHL’s Connecticut Whale. Of note, Kaliya Johnson becomes the first African-American player to sign with the Whale.

During the NWHL’s inaugural season, Blake Bolden became the first African-American to appear in a regular season game, doing so with the Boston Pride. Not only would she become the first African-American to appear in the league’s All-Star Game, she would also become the first to capture the Clarkson Cup.

The New York Riveters also featured an African-American player on their roster. Despite being assigned as a practice player, Cherie Stewart, who also played with the US national ball hockey team at the 2015 ISBHF Worlds, managed to see some ice time in the regular season. Johnson, who was raised in Arizona, now adds to a growing legacy in NWHL hockey, as visible minorities, both male and female, continue to make significant inroads in the game.

Johnson already brings a solid hockey resume that includes more than just four sensational seasons with the Eagles. Having competed with the US national team at the 2012 IIHF U18 Women’s Worlds, she would capture a silver medal. In the same year, she would win the North American Hockey Academy win the JWHL national championship.

With a Whale roster that lost Kaleigh Fratkin, the league’s leading scorer among blueliners to free agency, Johnson shall be a welcome addition. Considering that the Whale also signed blueliner Cydney Roesler from the ECAC champion Quinnipiac Bobcats, their blueline shall be significantly bolstered for the upcoming season.

Having graduated as one of the top ten career scorers among Eagles blueliners, she would display remarkable consistency and durability in her final season, appearing in all 41 games, as career benchmarks were set for points, goals and assists. Perhaps her greatest accomplishment was the fact that she helped the Eagles set a program record for most shutouts in one season with 14.

As a sophomore, Johnson came into her own as she did not miss a game with the Eagles. Leading the team in plus-minus rating (+29), while ranking sceond with an impressive 43 blocked shots, she was also named to the Hockey East All-Tournament Team, displaying an ability to excel in high pressure situations.

Statistically, her senior season would be her strongest, registering a career-high 17 points on the strength of 13 assists. Among her goals, one would prove to be the game-winning tally against Northeastern on November 20, 2015 while another was scored in the Beanpot against Harvard.

Recording at least one point in 15 regular season games, her final goal as a member of the Eagles came against Clarkson during the Frozen Four, advancing to the national championship for the first time in program history. Although the club would lose to the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the national championsnhip game at the Frozen Four, the efforts of seniors such as Johnson will be sorely missed.

Throughout her exceptional Eagles career, Johnson showed tremendous leadership on campus. Not only was she a representative for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee at BC, she was also on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee for the Atlantic Coast Conference, attending conference meetings twice a year in North Carolina. The focus of said meetings included rules and regulations, the welfare of student athletes and community service.

Such service was definitely a part of what defined Johnson’s efforts, for she was just as dedicatred to giving back to the community and setting a positive example on and off the ice. In addition to helping Boston College Athletics raise money for programs and academic services, she was also trained as a team health representative to assist students in need. Majoring in psychology, Johnson displayed a heart of gold, helping guide student athletes to different resources available on campus.

As a side note, she also served as a student teacher in Boston Public Schools. Among her efforts in such a capacity, she worked in classrooms teaching English as a Second Language.

Although the Whale have definitely signed a promising talent with a fundamentally sound game, the most important aspect may be that they signed a person with great character. In September 2014, Johnson underwent brain surgery after suffering from concussion related syndromes.

Returning on November 8, 2014, she would log an assist against Northeastern. The momentum would continue the following day, as she notched her second point in as many days, another assist, against the Vermont Catamounts. Her first goal that season would also take place in November, scoring on the 22nd against Connecticut.

While Johnson defied the odds and made a heroic comeback, concussions have proven to be a tremendous point of concern in the game, as the injury has brought an abrupt end to many careers. Hopefully, the strain that Johnson endured shall become an example of addressing the need for concussion research and preventing such injuries from plaguing these exceptional women.

As Johnson stated in her own words on the Eagles website, the presence of a Chiari malformation, which meant that her brain was sitting below the base of her skull, applied pressure on her spinal cord. Such exposure was causing many of the headaches that plagued her in the previous offseason.

Despite being unable to start her junior season in 2014-15 due to brain surgery, Johnson would be back on the ice by Christmas, a heroic return for an individual who took on adversity with remarkable courage and dignity. Not only did a return to the ice make Johnson learn to not take the game for granted, it allowed her an empathic approach to other players that are injured, understanding the emotional strain that takes place. It is a somewhat reciprocal experience for Johnson as she saw the true meaning of teamwork when teammates, coaches and her mother showed their support, believing in her abilities and the strength to come back. It is that type of strength and maturity which not only makes Johnson a role model, but is poised to make her one worth watching when the Whale return in the autumn of 2016.

Record-breaking swimmer Kylie Masse honored at BLG Awards

Having qualified in the 100-meter backstroke for Canada at the 2016 Rio Summer Games, there is a strong feeling of momentum for Kylie Masse. At the 2016 BLG Awards, Masse had the honor of the Jim Thompson Trophy Award bestowed upon her, which recognizes the best female athlete in Canadian university sport. Along with the trophy, Masse was the recipient of a $10,000 post-graduate scholarship, a watch and a gold ring. Currently, there are 12,000 student-athletes representing 56 universities in Canada.

The pride of Lasalle, Ontario, Masse becomes the third swimmer to capture the BLG Awards, following 2009 winner Annamay Pierse and fellow Varsity Blues swimmer Elizabeth Warden in 2002. As a side note, Warden would swim for Canada at the 2004 Athens Summer Games. Other Varsity Blues athletes that have captured the Thompson Trophy include track and field star Foy Williams in 1998 and basketball player Justine Ellison two years earlier in 1996.

In addition, Masse becomes the fifth female athlete from the Ontario University Athletic conference to win the award. The most recent was last year, as Windsor Lancers basketball player Korissa Williams gained the honor. Considering that Masse grew up near Windsor, it marked the second consecutive season that an athlete raised or playing in Essex County nabbed the award.

At the 2016 Canadian Interuniversity Sport national swim championships, the University of Toronto sophomore captured victory in three backstroke finals while finishing no worse than second in all seven of her races as her medal haul consisted of four gold medals and three silver medals. Perhaps more impressive was the fact that it marked the second consecutive season that Masse earned seven medals at the nationals.

Complementing her superlative performance was the fact that she broke the Canadian record in the 100-metre backstroke twice. Her ticket to Rio was assured on April 6 with a record time of 59.06 seconds in the 100-metre backstroke.

Masse’s brilliance was also evident in her freshman season of 2014-15, gaining OUA female swimmer of the year honors. At the 2015 Summer Universiade in South Korea, she would establish herself as an international athlete by claiming the gold in the 100-meter backstroke.

During the 2015-16 season, Masse captured an astonishing 18 individual victories in six conference competitions. Not surprisingly, she would set six OUA records in the process. Thanks to Masse, the Varsity Blues female swimming team won the national championship, their first since 1997.

With each conference featuring one male and female finalist for the BLG Award, the other female athletes were as follows. Acadia University basketball player Paloma Anderson (raised in Phoenix, Arizona) represented Atlantic University Sport. Melodie Daoust, who won a gold medal for Canada in ice hockey at the 2014 Sochi Winter Games, represented the RSEQ. During the season, she would reach 200 career points with the McGill Martlets, achieving the feat in only 100 games. Canada West was represented by Donetsk, Ukraine native Iuliia Pakhomenko, who starred on the volleyball court for Thompson Rivers University. Although the winners were selected by the Canadian Athletic Foundation, an online vote, which did not count toward the official result, was available for sports fans during a span of two weeks. An impressive 112,499 votes were cast.

Storm debut among memorable milestones for Breanna Stewart

Labelled “the LeBron James of women’s basketball” by Kelsey Plum, an All-American with the Washington Huskies, the Seattle Storm are hoping that Breanna Stewart can emerge as a franchise player and restore the championship hopes for a loyal fan base. In addition to her scoring prowess, Stewart is also a solid playmaker, as evidenced by her 300 career blocks and 300 career assists, the only NCAA player to do so. As a side note, she was also the only competitor to be recognized as the Final Four most outstanding player four times.
As Stewart made her preseason debut with the Storm, gracing the courts of the WNBA for the first-time ever, there was a tinge of irony. Former Huskies teammate Moriah Jefferson, the second pick overall in this year’s WNBA Draft was opposing Stewart, as a member of the Phoenix Mercury.

The WNBA Draft was a watershed moment for the league and the Huskies. With the draft launching the celebration of the WNBA’s 20th season, it was only fitting that the Draft was held at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut. Holding the first overall pick for the second consecutive year (the Storm selected Jewell Loyd in 2015), the Storm did not surprise, selecting Stewart. Of note, Stewart became the fifth UConn alum taken first overall in WNBA Draft history. The others in this remarkable class include Maya Moore (2011), Tina Charles (2010), Diana Taurasi (2004) and Sue Bird (2002).

Following Stewart, San Antonio grabbed Jefferson Moriah Jefferson while Morgan Tuck went third overall to the Connecticut Sun, allowing her to stay in close proximity to her Huskies glories. It marked the first time in WNBA draft history (and in professional sports) that three players from the same school represented the top three picks. As a side note, the 2002 WNBA Draft saw Huskies players selected first, second, fourth and sixth overall.

This titanic trio also hold the rare distinction of having won the Final Four in every season of their NCAA careers, another historic first. It was a fitting end to their glorious collegiate careers, propelling the Huskies into one of the greatest dynasties in American sporting history. Except for the likes of Lew Alcindor and Bill Walton with the UCLA Bruins, Stewart may be the most accomplished basketball player in the history of NCAA basketball, capturing three straight Player of the Year Awards, an unprecedented achievement.
In her WNBA debut, Stewart managed 29 minutes of playing time, logging 11 points and a solid eight rebounds, although Phoenix that would prevail. With 3,271 fans at Key Arena witnessing her debut, it was Stewart’s first loss on a basketball court since November 28, 2014.

While the Storm had a solid first half, a 36-28 lead evaporated as the Mercury enjoyed an 11-0 run. Loyd would tie the score at 39-39 at halftime. Considering that Sue Bird was inactive in the second half, the Mercury outscored the Storm in both quarters (20-14 in the third, 22-20 in the fourth), grabbing the W. Compounding matters was a lack of on-court chemistry between Loyd and Stewart, a key challenge for head coach Jenny Boucek to overcome. The leap to the professional ranks became a sobering reality, as winning, something so easily attained at the University of Connecticut could not be taken for granted in the WNBA.

One of the benefits of joining the Storm is the fact that Stewart is joined by another Huskies legend. Entering her 15th WNBA season, Sue Bird led the Storm to WNBA titles in 2004 and 2010, complemented by 10 straight postseason berths. While both represent Huskies pride with the Storm, the two will also get the opportunity to be teammates twice before the WNBA season expires.

In addition to being part of the Seattle Storm’s roster, both were named to the US national team that shall compete at the 2016 Rio Summer Games. Having already won three gold medals in Summer Games play, Bird will be looking for a fourth, as this will likely be the final Games of her storied career.

While Rio represents the first Summer Games for Stewart, she will be joined by a couple of other celebrated first-timers, including Elena Delle Donne and Brittney Griner. At the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, Stewart donned the US jersey in a silver medal effort, suffering an upset to fellow Husky Kia Nurse and the host Canadian team in an emotional gold medal match.

Gold is a strong possibility to be the color of choice in the aftermath of Rio for Stewart et al. With Huskies coach Geno Auriemma serving as the US head coach (he was also the bench boss at London 2012), a second championship in 2016 for Auriemma and Stewart would only add to the legendary legacies that the two have forged in four fantastic years with the Huskies.

Meanwhile, Stewart’s focus shall be on bringing the Storm back into contention. Despite opening her WNBA career with a loss, Stewart has the talent and the tenacity to ensure that the wins will outnumber the losses. A rematch with the Mercury on Mother’s Day shall prove to be a key test for Stewart.

Another element of intrigue in the preseason shall include a contest the followigtn week against the Los Angeles Sparks. Of note, the Sparks selected Syracuse University star Brianna Butler in the Draft. Not only did Stewart grow up in North Syracuse, but her fourth straight Final Four title came against Syracuse. Undoubtedly, emotions will run high for both.

Presidential visit tremendous point of pride for Dr. Jen Welter

One of the great milestones for any American-raised athlete is the privilege of being invited to the White House. A celebration of one’s glories on the intense field of play, simultaneously a tremendous moment of patriotic national pride, and such a visit is commemorated by an opportunity to rub shoulders with the President of the United States. Undoubtedly, for an athlete to gain an audience with the President signifies that one has truly arrived as a sporting icon, symbolizing a remarkable achievement and quite possibly, a great personal milestone.

In March 2015, Dr. Jen Welter was among a proud group of invited guests at the White House for Women’s History Month, a celebration that recognized the accomplishments of women in all facets of society. Having spoken to the White House Council on Women and Girls in the past, a group founded by President Barack Obama, Welter became a global celebrity after a preseason spent serving as the linebackers coach for the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, an unprecedented first.

While medalists from the Summer and Winter Games, along with championships from all NCAA women’s sports gain the opportunity to visit the White House, such gatherings tend to be very large and do not allow much time for socializing. Welter would gain the opportunity to enjoy a chat with Obama, definitely an indication of her impact on the American sporting and social scene.

Perhaps the biggest surprise was reserved for Obama, who respectfully commented that he thought Welter would be much taller, as she was continuously handling up on the giants who grace the gridirons of the NFL. As Welter told ESPN, she laughed and replied that if she were taller, she would likely be playing basketball, which is also the President’s favorite sport. Shaking her hand, he was quoted as saying, “I love everything that you’re doing.”

Having taken a photo with Obama, a jubilant Welter finally received said photo in early May, immediately posting it with pride on her Instagram account. Perhaps even more cherished is the fact that he mentioned Welter twice in his speech, acknowledging her achievements and proclaiming her as a role model, mentioning that the glass ceiling does not exist anymore.

During Obama’s presidency, a unique parallel is the rising impact of women in sport, which has grown by a quantum leap in a very remarkable time. Among such achievements, the United States captured the FIFA Women’s World Cup, women have been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, there have been two Women’s World Tackle Football Championships, baseball was contested as a medal sport at the Pan American Games, the first world women’s ice sledge hockey championships were played, professional leagues for hockey and lacrosse have started. The 2015 NFL season not only featured the presence of women such as Dr. Jen Welter and Sarah Thomas making their mark on history, with Welter coaching and Thomas officiating, there was also a Women in Football summit during the events leading up to the 50th Super Bowl.

Adding to such jubilation is the fact that Welter will be returning to the White House on June 14 for the United States of Women summit, where she will be speaking. As a side note, Welter’s visit represented another great chapter in the growing history of female athletes visiting the White House. Just a few months earlier, the victorious United States squad from the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup gained a photo of with President Obama that would have once been reserved for World Series champions. Undoubtedly, the respect for women and their prominence in society shall definitely stand as one of Obama’s greatest benchmarks as President, highlighted by their ability to make their mark as sporting icons.

Rousey, Ledecky and Mirza named to Time’s Most 100 Influential in 2016

Having released its list of the top 100 most influential people, three female athletes were among the honored list. Featuring seven athletes overall, the likes of swimming sensation Katie Ledecky, tennis champion Sania Mirza and mixed martial arts pioneer Ronda Rousey were bestowed such an honor.

Compared to 2015, when Abby Wambach was the only female athlete on the list, the increase in 2016 may hopefully lead to an even stronger showing in 2017. Surprisingly, Serena Williams, who was recognized by Time’s sister publication Sports Illustrated as the Sportsperson of the Year for 2015, and Dr. Jen Welter, who made history as the first female assistant coach in NFL history were not part of the 2016 list.

Among the criterion employed by Time to shape its list included those that embody a breakthrough and/or have the power to make one think. In addition, each honored member of the top 100 was featured in a profile composed by a guest writer, either a fellow peer or a celebrity.

Of the three honored women, it may have come as the biggest surprise to see Tina Fey honor Rousey with her words. Although Fey is not famous for sport, she is currently part of Rousey’s ambitions to branch out into acting. Both are starring in a Paula Pell produced film titled “Do Nothing Bitches,” to be distributed by Universal.

Rousey has made an impression on both the big and small screen. From hosting ‘Saturday Night Live’ in January 2016, to roles in big budget films such as “The Expendables 3”, “Entourage: The Movie” and “Furious 7”, she is also pegged to be in the remake of “Road House” while a biopic about her career is in the works. It may be highly possible that Rousey will do like football legend Jim Brown, walking away from sport in their prime to pursue acting full-time.

Based on rumors circulating online, the plot of the film centers around rich wives who attend a camp in which Rousey is a military-like instructor. Considering that Pell and Rousey are both represented by WME, the film was actually based on an interview where Rousey spoke about female empowerment.

As Fey recalls her first fascination with Rousey, courtesy of the interview which gathered three million views on YouTube, it becomes clear that she is becoming her biggest fan. Encouraging Rousey’s candor, Fey hopes that her powerful message can serve as the catalyst to help women become comfortable with their body image and self-esteem.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar takes pen to paper to express his views on Sania Mirza. Both hailing from growing global power India, each has made an invaluable contribution to sport, subsequently becoming legends. Like so many, Tendulkar first heard of Mirza in 2005, when she made history as the first player from India to capture a Women’s Tennis Association event. Admiring her ability to bounce back from a serious injury, Tendulkar is quick to point out in his commentary that Sania means brilliant.

From a tennis perspective, Sania is living up to such billing. Teaming up with Martina Hingis, who was a promising phenom in the late 1990s as a teenager, the two have become an unlikely duo, rising to become the top-ranked doubles team in the world.

After a singles career that quickly fizzled for Hingis, unable to live up to a combination of expectation and image as a sex symbol, continuously placing her in comparison to Anna Kournikova (the two were once doubles partners), the Swiss Miss seemed doomed to be another tennis prodigy poised to burn out. Instead, Mirza has helped Hingis rediscover her greatness, simultaneously reinventing herself as an elite doubles competitor, with the last three Grand Slam titles to show for it.

The presence of Hingis has certainly been reciprocated, as Sania bounced back from a potentially career threatening wrist injury, forcing her to abandon singles competition. From Tendulkar’s perspective, her confidence, strength and resilience are remarkable qualities, which he believes shall help inspire a new generation of promising athletes in India to pursue their own sporting dreams.

Recognizing the growing greatness of Katie Ledecky, swimming legend Janet Evans emphasizes that she is in a class of her own, oblivious to the seven other swimmers occupying the other lanes. Having captured four gold medals in the Summer Games, Evans carved a legacy that Ledecky not only emulated, but managed to exceed.

At one point, Evans held the world records in the 400-m, 800-m and 1,500-m freestyle events. Ledecky would eclipse all three records and make waves by capturing five gold medals at the 2015 World Championships. Perhaps the most impressive aspect is the fact that she was only 18 years old when these records fell.

Having first met Ledecky in November 2015, when Ledecky captured the Golden Goggles award for Female Athlete of the Year, Evans is definitely in awe. She points out how Ledecky became the first female swimmer to earn a first place finish in the 200-m, 400-m, 800-m and 1,500-m freestyle in the same World Championships. Yet, the quality that Evans admires the most is Ledecky’s maturity, a focus that results in resetting what she can achieve.

Coincidentally, Evans and Ledecky once swam in the same meet. The two would take the plunge in 2012 for the US Summer Games Trials in Omaha, Nebraska. It was actually Evans first Trials since 1996, before Ledecky was even born.
While Ledecky enjoyed a first place finish in the 800-m freestyles at the Trials, it was a moment of redemption. Evans had noticed that the product of Bethesda, Maryland experienced heartbreak earlier at the Trials, placing third in the 400-m freestyle. As a side note, Evans held the world record in the 400-m from 1987 to 2006. Considering that only the winner qualifies for the Summer Games in an individual event, such frustration was compounded as the 400-m came before the 800-m.

Heading into the 2016 Rio Summer Games, Ledecky is poised to build on the momentum of her world record haul and become the next swimming superstar from the United States, possibly capturing the imagination of fans the way Mark Spitz and Michael Phelps once did. Having won a gold medal in the 800-m freestyle at the 2012 London Summer Games at the tender age of 15, she looks destined to win much more in Rio. Undoubtedly, the first gold in London definitely brought back memories of when Amanda Beard won her first Summer Games gold as a teen phenom at Atlanta 1996. Of note, 15 was also the age that Evans set her first world record.

UWLX the newest chapter in Dana Dobbie’s distinguished career

As the Baltimore Ride prepare for their inaugural season in the ground-breaking UWLX, the squad shall consist of a proud international presence. Raised in Guelph, Ontario, Dobbie becomes the first Canadian ever drafted in UWLX history.

Having established herself as one of the finest competitors in the history of the Maryland Terrapins, Dobbie is also the most decorated player among those that have donned the Maple Leaf for the Canadian national women’s lacrosse team. Selected by the Ride with their eighth overall pick, she may prove to be the steal of the draft.

Joining Dobbie on the Ride are four other Terrapins alums including Katie Schwarzmann, the first pick overall in the draft, Alex Aust, Beth Glaros and Brooke Griffin. In addition, there is a highly familiar face in head coach Jen Adams.

Since 2007, their exemplary lacrosse careers have run parallel. A native of Australia, Adams made history as the first-ever female recipient of the Tewaaraton Trophy, and was on the Terrapins coaching staff when Dobbie transferred from Ohio University.

One year after graduating, Dobbie would join Adams on the coaching staff of the Baltimore-based Loyola Greyhounds. With Adams gaining her first head coaching opportunity, Dobbie would prove to be the perfect fit on her coaching staff. Since then, the results have spoken for themselves with back-to-back Big East postseason titles and consecutive Patriot League crowns. As a side note, the two are proprietors in Seven Lacrosse Training.

Appointed as the first head coach in Ride franchise history, Adams will definitely look to Dobbie to provide team leadership. As the Ride allows Dobbie and Adams to be on the same team for the third time in their careers, their lacrosse legacies should help positively shape the team culture, propelling the club into the conversation for the first-ever UWLX championship.

While Dobbie built a solid career in coaching, she has still proven to be a superstar on the field. Considering the perspective obtained from coaching, her acumen has translated into an even more proficient on-field vision, which benefits her teammates.
For the younger players on the Ride, Dobbie will definitely take on the personna of a playing coach.

As the cornerstone of the Canadian national team, Dobbie has appeared in the last two FIL Women’s World Cups (2009, 2013). At the 2013 edition of the World Cup, held on Canadian soil in Oshawa, Ontario, she would lead the national team to a silver medal, its best-ever finish in World Cup history.

Although the 2013 FIL World Cup did not have the same fanfare as the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup (of which Canada was the host country), it was still a landmark event in Canadian female sporting history. Undoubtedly, what Christine Sinclair means to women’s soccer in Canada, Dobbie holds that same impact for women’s lacrosse.

In the aftermath of Canada capturing the gold medal at the 2015 U18 Women’s World Championships, Dobbie showed a touch of class and published an open letter online praising the team’s historic efforts. Displaying a remarkable sincerity and gratitude, it was testament to Dobbie’s strong leadership, setting a positive example for those young players to emulate.

Riveters make big splash on opening day of NWHL free agency

In the brief history of the New York Riveters, May 1, 2016 may be remembered as the $50,000 day. Spending approximately 20 per cent of their salary cap on a trio of free agents, general manager Chad Wiseman has made a bold statement about ensuring that the Riveters do not end up in the basement for the second consecutive season.

After trading away the rights to Alex Carpenter, a possible franchise player and potential face for the league, to the Boston Pride, Riveters fans were briefly left to ponder what might have been. Wiseman would ensure that such grief would not last as he acquired one of the most coveted free agents in all of hockey.

Signing Amanda Kessel to a one-year deal worth $26,000, she now surpassed Kelli Stack as the highest paid player in the NWHL. Following such an acquisition, the Riveters would welcome a pair of Connecticut Whale stars into the fold.

Elite blueliner Kaleigh Fratkin was signed to a deal worth $19,500 while goaltender Jaimie Leonoff agreed on a one-year contract worth $10,000, making the team’s grand total $55,500 for a trio of free agents that will be expected to turn the franchise’s fortunes around.

With any free agent signing, there is an element of risk, making such acquisitions a gamble. Taking into account that Kessel was shelved for close to two years due to concussion related problems, there is definitely a fear that such woes may resurface in the NWHL. Should Kessel suffer another concussion, it will be another sad chapter in the ravage that the injury has caused, abruptly cutting many playing careers short

Undoubtedly, a healthy Kessel is good for the game overall. Should she remain healthy, she will clearly be the marquee player for the Riveters, helping add an element of excitement for women’s hockey in the New York market. Kessel has demonstrated a readiness to play, as demonstrated by her heroics as she scored the game-winning goal for the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the 2016 NCAA Frozen Four title game.

Strategically, the acquisition of Kessel may prove to pay positive dividends for the Riveters. During a week filled with many trades, Wiseman also acquired the playing rights to Hannah Brandt on April 27. Selected second overall in the 2015 NWHL Draft, the first-ever selection in Connecticut Whale draft history, it was a shrewd acquisition on the part of the franchise.

Considering that Brandt and Kessel were linemates with the Minnesota Golden Gophers, the chance to extend careers as linemates in the NWHL may prove to be the elixir to remedy the Riveters’ offensive woes. From a draft standpoint, their involvement with the Riveters may prove to be even more important.

With the first overall pick in the 2016 NWHL Draft, the Riveters shall likely turn to Minnesota once again for another piece of the puzzle. Forward Dani Cameranesi and blueliner Lee Stecklein are definitely the top prospects in this year’s draft. Should the Riveters select one of them, they shall be known colloquially as “Minnesota East.”

Adding to the momentum of acquiring Kessel are a pair of Canadian-born players that made their mark with the Connecticut Whale during its inaugural season. In becoming the first free agents to actually change alleagiances and sign with another team, Kaleigh Fratkin and Jaimie Leonoff become part of a unique chapter in league history.

For these two distinguished competitors, they have been making history since they first signed with the Whale. From the outset, Fratkin, a native of British Columbia, became the first Canadian-born blueliner to sign an NWHL contract. In addition to participating in the league’s inaugural All-Star Game, Fratkin would also play with the Boston Pride for one day, gracing the ice at the Women’s Winter Classic.

Having led all NWHL blueliners in scoring during the league’s inaugural campaign, Fratkin displayed a scoring proficiency that will prove crucial for the Riveters. In a season where the Riveters struggled to assemble any offensive attack, the club lacked an offensive minded blueliner. The arrival of Fratkin should also provide the Riveters with a quarterback on the power play, likely adding more W’s to the wins column.

Standing between the pipes in 10 games for the Whale, Jaimie Leonoff not only gained the first win in franchise history, she would also be credited with the first win in league history. The Montreal-raised Leonoff would also gain the start in the NWHL All-Star Game, allowing the first goal in all-star history.

Finishing her season with a 7-3-0 mark, complemented by a solid .936 save percentage, Leonoff will be given every opportunity to earn the starting goaltenders job. As a side note, Nana Fujimoto, the Riveters starter in 2015-16 was Leonoff’s teammate at the All-Star Game.