What does it REALLY take to fuel the explosive growth of women’s sports and ensure it lasts? 

From grassroots grants to elite athlete support, Danette Leighton, CEO of the Women’s Sports Foundation, shares how her organization is tackling inequality and building a healthier, more inclusive future for sports.

Danette and Dave explore how legislation like Title IX set the foundation for today’s momentum, and why it’s still just the beginning. With stats to back it up, she explains the direct links between sports participation and leadership, mental health, academic performance, and economic advancement, especially for young women.

Whether you're a brand, executive, or athlete, this episode offers a powerful reminder: investing in women’s sports isn’t charity: it’s smart business. 

Tune in to learn why the ecosystem matters, what needs fixing in college athletics, and how every level of the pyramid contributes to long-term success.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why 71% of women attribute their leadership skills to youth sports participation
• The biggest opportunities (and threats) facing women’s sports, including elite leagues and college athletics
• What every policymaker needs to understand about the real value of sports for girls
• How the Sports for Life and Travel & Training grant programs are filling critical funding gaps
• Why brands are finally recognizing women’s sports as a smart business move, and how that’s impacting media deals, salaries, and fan growth

Resources and Links:

Connect with Danette Leighton on LinkedIn and learn more about the Women’s Sports Foundation. 

Learn more about Next League on our website and LinkedIn. We are leading sports organizations into the digital future.

Next League is partnering with Sports Business Journal for the Rising Woman of the Year Award. Nominations are now open! Learn more here.