Because of Title IX: Ashley Broockerd

Senior Director of Events & Operations, Women Leaders in College Sports

Finish this sentence: “Because of Title IX...”

I have never known a day without sport.

How have the athletic and academic opportunities afforded to you because of Title IX impacted your life? Can you imagine your life without them?

Because of the amazing women before me who fought for our right to education and participation, the athletic and academic opportunities I’ve been fortunate to participate in throughout my entire life are the sole reason I am who I am, and where I am, today. Not only did athletics and sport teach me the intangibles—resiliency, grit, determination, compassion, a competitive spirit, and what a work ethic really is—those same opportunities introduced me to some of my most precious friendships and people in life. From playing basketball early on, to running cross country and track in high school, to rowing at the collegiate level, and now to CrossFit and various running races as an adult, I’m proud of the fact that every single one of my friendships to this day (some spanning more than 25 years), ties back to former teammates—both on athletic teams and the Women Leaders team.

Tell us about a woman who championed you in pursuing your goals. How did her influence inspire or affect you and your career?

From the early stages, and still today, it was my mom, Mary Beth Broockerd. She just said “yes” and was always 100-percent supportive to any crazy, lofty idea I may have had. And I have many! She let me try—and was always there for my successes, but more importantly, was always there to encourage me and show me the lessons after my failures.

From a professional standpoint, there’s no question it’s Patti Phillips. (And yes, I would still say this even if she weren’t my current boss.) For the last decade, Patti has been the only boss I’ve ever known, from my days as a very green intern for her, to our time at WIN for KC, and now to Women Leaders in College Sports. Patti has an amazing ability to see potential in others before they see it in themselves. And from there, she helps you figure it out for yourself. Things I’ve learned from PP: 1) Just show up—it’s not hard and it speaks volumes, 2) Be gritty and figure it out—there’s always a way, 3) Your potential is so much more than you can see.

How are you continuing to champion the next generation of women and girls in sports, and raise awareness on the importance Title IX?

I’m still involved in WIN for KC, an organization that empowers girls and women through sports in fitness. I also have two nephews, and while I want to instill in them that anything is possible, I also want to show and teach them that anything is possible for their female peers as well. I want to challenge them to think differently and be advocates. They are only 4 and 2, but the conversations have started in very subtle ways.

If you could send an empowering tweet to every woman and girl across the country, what would you send?

Bloom where you are planted.

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