Breaking Barriers: Two Women Presidents Make NFL History
When the Carolina Panthers face off against the Las Vegas Raiders this Sunday, it will mark a historic moment for the National Football League. For the first time in NFL history, two female presidents will lead their teams into battle on the gridiron. Carolina Panthers President Kristi Coleman and Las Vegas Raiders President Sandra Douglass Morgan are breaking barriers and paving the way for more women to join the ranks of NFL executives.
Trailblazers in a Male-Dominated Industry
Kristi Coleman, with a finance background, made history when she was named team president of the Panthers in February 2022. Prior to her current role, Coleman served as the vice president and chief financial officer of Tepper Sports & Entertainment. The Panthers are owned by hedge fund founder David Tepper, who saw Coleman’s potential and appointed her to lead the team.
Sandra Douglass Morgan, on the other hand, brings more than two decades of experience in the gaming, legal, and corporate sectors to her role as Raiders president. Owner Mark Davis selected Douglass Morgan for the position in July 2022, recognizing her leadership qualities and expertise in various industries.
Both Coleman and Douglass Morgan understand the significance of their roles as the only female presidents among the NFL’s 32 teams. They acknowledge the importance of representation and diversity in the league and are committed to proving themselves through their work ethic and dedication to their respective teams.
Empowering Women in Football
The NFL has been making strides in increasing gender diversity within the league. Last year, women made up 42.5% of employees in the NFL League Office, marking a significant improvement from a decade ago. The league has 243 women in front office positions, showcasing a commitment to creating opportunities for women in football.
On the field, the number of women in coaching positions has also been on the rise. Currently, 22 women hold full-time coaching positions in the NFL, a record for any male professional sports league. The NFL’s annual Women’s Forum has been instrumental in developing a pipeline for women in football, with over 400 women participating in the program since its inception in 2017.
As the NFL looks to expand its reach through flag football, more opportunities are emerging for women to get involved in the sport. With over 700,000 participants in the NFL’s flag football program, women have a pathway to play in college and beyond. Coleman and Douglass Morgan see flag football as a valuable pipeline for women to engage with the game and pursue careers in football.
Advice for Aspiring Women in Sports
Both Coleman and Douglass Morgan offer advice to women looking to break into male-dominated sports leagues. They emphasize the importance of confidence, perseverance, and self-belief in overcoming challenges and making a mark in the industry. Coleman stresses the need to excel in your current role and showcase your potential for advancement, while Douglass Morgan highlights the importance of having a strong support system to navigate obstacles in a competitive environment.
In a league where women are still a minority among team executives, Coleman and Douglass Morgan’s success serves as a testament to their resilience and determination. They are setting an example for future generations of women in sports and inspiring others to pursue their dreams, regardless of gender barriers.
As the Panthers and Raiders prepare to face off in a historic game led by two female presidents, the spotlight is on Coleman and Douglass Morgan as they make history and shatter glass ceilings in the NFL. Their journey serves as a reminder that with talent, hard work, and determination, anything is possible in the world of professional football.
