The Female Pickleball Titans of the Northeast

Pickleball isn’t just a sport—it’s a phenomenon. And in the Northeast, a powerhouse group of women is driving the revolution. They’re not just competing; they’re building clubs, running tournaments, launching businesses, coaching the next generation, and breaking barriers in an industry that’s still catching up to its own explosive growth.

This isn’t just about winning matches—it’s about redefining the game. These women aren’t waiting for pickleball to evolve; they’re making it happen, proving the sport’s meteoric rise isn’t just a trend but a full-blown movement. These are the leaders, the innovators, and the game-changers shaping the future of the fastest-growing sport in America. 

It’s time to meet the titans.

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Kristen Clemmer | The Pickleball Pioneer & Positioning Prodigy Owner at Tristen Pickleball | Registered Dietitian 📍 Marlton, NJ

Kristen Clemmer isn’t just playing the game—she’s revolutionizing how people learn, move, and thrive in it. As the owner of Tristen Pickleball, a high-level training service, and one of the first women in the Northeast to build a career in the pickleball industry, Kristen seamlessly blends her expertise as a Registered Dietitian with her passion for performance, helping players develop both on and off the court.

A high-level competitor and sought-after coach, Kristen’s ability to break the game down into fundamentals makes her a standout instructor for all skill levels. She’s especially passionate about guiding beginners—helping those who never considered themselves athletes find success in the sport. She also knows that footwork is the secret weapon that separates a good player from a great one, a principle she reinforces in every lesson she teaches.

“Movement changes everything. Footwork is the defining factor between a 4.0 and a 5.0+ player. ”

But what truly sets Kristen apart is her belief that pickleball is more than just a game—it’s a vehicle for health, connection, and self-improvement. Whether she’s coaching, competing, or inspiring more women to take up the sport, Kristen is proof that pickleball isn’t just about competition—it’s about building a stronger, healthier community.

What Makes Kristen Stand Out?

✅ A True Pickleball Pioneer – One of the first women in the Northeast to build a business in the sport, inspiring others to follow.

✅ Blending Wellness & Performance – A Registered Dietitian turned entrepreneur and elite coach, she helps players fuel their bodies and their game.

✅ A Fundamentals Fanatic – Her teaching approach breaks the game down to its most essential elements for rapid improvement.

Kristen Clemmer isn’t just shaping the future of Northeast pickleball—she’s proving that better health, sharper strategy, and smarter movement can take any player to the next level. Read Kristen’s full interview here.

Kim Clijsters | Crossover Queen of Court Sports Former Tennis World No. 1 | Four-time Tennis Grand Slam Champion | Major League Team Pickleball Owner  📍 New Jersey

From world No. 1 in tennis to pickleball powerhouse, Kim Clijsters is bringing her champion mindset to the sport’s next frontier.

When Kim steps onto a court—any court—she means business. The former world No. 1 and four-time Grand Slam champion has already cemented her legacy in tennis, but now, she’s turning her attention to pickleball. And she’s not just playing—she’s investing, innovating, and helping build the sport from the ground up.

As a co-owner of the Las Vegas Night Owls Major League Pickleball team—alongside names like Kaitlyn “The Pickleball Chick” Kerr and Tom Brady—Clijsters is using her decades of experience in professional sports to help shape pickleball’s future. What started as a social escape during COVID has transformed into a full-fledged commitment to growing the game, from grassroots clinics to big-picture business strategy.

A relentless competitor, a savvy investor, and a global ambassador for the sport, Clijsters is proving that pickleball isn’t just a side gig for retired tennis stars—it’s the next big thing.

What Makes Kim Stand Out?

✅ From Grand Slams to Pickleball Courts – One of the greatest tennis players of her era is now making waves in pickleball.

✅ Bridging the Gap – Bringing her experience as a player, academy owner, and sports executive to elevate pickleball.

✅ A True Global Ambassador – With deep ties in Europe and the U.S., she’s poised to help pickleball expand beyond American borders.

With her legendary work ethic and unmatched experience in professional sports, Kim Clijsters isn’t just dabbling in pickleball—she’s helping define its future.

Adriana Falco | Fashionista of the Fast Game Founder and CEO, Pickle Diva Sportswear, LLC 📍 Philadelphia, PA

“Pickleball isn’t just a sport—it’s a culture. And in fashion, culture drives trends.”

Adriana Falco isn’t just dressing the pickleball world—she’s redefining what it means to blend fashion, function, and fierce competition. As the Founder & CEO of Pickle Diva Sportswear, Adriana has turned her passion for the game into a thriving eCommerce business, selling hundreds of pickleball-themed products online that let players express their style on and off the court.

Her journey started long before pickleball was a household name. After first discovering the sport in 2012 through a Meetup group, she became an early adopter and advocate for its growth. But as a player, she noticed something missing—pickleball lacked the stylish, performance-driven apparel that other major sports had. When she pitched her initial concept years ago, she was told the apparel business was too tough. Instead of backing down, she waited for the right time, rebranded, and in 2023, officially launched Pickle Diva Sportswear, now one of the most recognizable independent fashion brands in the sport.

More than just a brand, Pickle Diva Sportswear is a movement, bridging the gap between court-ready performance wear and bold, expressive fashion. Adriana’s designs are made to empower players, blending flattering fits, vibrant colors, and high-performance fabrics that keep up with the intensity of the game. She also sees the future of pickleball fashion evolving—expecting more sustainable materials, built-in sun protection, and innovation that mirrors tennis and golf apparel trends.

Beyond the threads, Adriana is making an impact as a PPR-certified pickleball coach, helping more women feel confident stepping onto the court. She’s part of the next wave of innovators shaping pickleball’s future—one stylish rally at a time.

What Makes Adriana Stand Out?

✅ The eCommerce Empress – She built a thriving online business, selling hundreds of pickleball-themed products to players nationwide.

✅ Fashion Meets Function – Pickle Diva Sportswear blends bold aesthetics with high-performance athleticwear, proving style and sport go hand in hand.

✅ More Than Just Apparel – She’s also a certified pickleball coach, growing the game by helping players—especially women—feel empowered on the court.

Adriana Falco isn’t just selling gear—she’s shaping the identity of a sport that’s here to stay. Read Adriana’s full interview here.

Taylor Hartman | Queen of the Court & the Community General Manager, Pickle House Robbinsville | Certified Pro Coach  📍 Robbinsville, NJ

“Players are getting better, faster. AI, real-time analytics, and drilling are the biggest game-changers in training.”

Taylor Hartman isn’t just shaping pickleball in the Northeast—she’s redefining what it means to run a world-class facility. As the General Manager of Pickle House Robbinsville, the largest pickleball venue in the region, Taylor is leading the charge in creating a premier player experience, from developing innovative membership models to integrating cutting-edge AI and analytics for training.

A former logistics professional turned full-time pickleball powerhouse, Taylor took a leap of faith, leaving behind a corporate career to build a future in the sport she loves. Now, she’s not just managing a facility—she’s building a community. With 19 state-of-the-art courts, PlaySight technology on every court, and a vision to make Pickle House a true pickleball destination, Taylor is proving that pickleball is bigger than just the game—it’s a movement.

What Makes Taylor Stand Out?

✅ A Business Mind Meets Pickleball Passion - The Only GM on the List – She’s not just playing the game; she’s running it.

✅ Leading the Future of Pickleball Training – AI, real-time analytics, and drilling are at the heart of her facility’s success.

✅ A True Community Builder – She’s making the sport more accessible and inspiring the next generation of players in her own backyard.

Taylor Hartman isn’t just influencing pickleball—she’s setting the standard for what’s next. Read Taylor’s full interview here.

Renee Hollander | The Pickleball Wellness Guru Head Pro Coach, Bounce Pickleball Club | USAPA NE Region District Ambassador | Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach 📍 Phoenixville, PA

Renee Hollander isn’t just coaching pickleball—she’s revolutionizing how players train, move, and stay in the game. As the Head Pro Coach at Bounce Pickleball Club, a USAPA NE Region District Ambassador, and a certified personal trainer and wellness coach, Renee is bringing a science-driven, holistic approach to player development.

Her journey into pickleball began in 2016 in Ocean City, NJ, where she was instantly hooked. “I stayed for two to three hours that first day. Then I went back the next day. And the next. And the next. It was fun as hell.” By 2019, she made the full pivot from tennis to pickleball, turning her passion into a profession.

What makes Renee a standout? She’s not just helping players perfect their shots—she’s building them into stronger, more resilient athletes. Her coaching philosophy blends mobility, strength training, and injury prevention, ensuring that players don’t just improve their game, but stay competitive and pain-free for years to come.

She’s also a leading voice in the debate over paddle technology and player safety. As the sport evolves, Renee is making sure players stay protected, informed, and physically prepared for the demands of the game.

“The exit velocity on new paddles is off the charts, and there’s no governing body ensuring player safety. We’re seeing more eye injuries than ever.”

What Makes Renee Stand Out?

✅ Mind, Body & Game Mastery – She’s blending fitness, mindset, and skill development to create stronger, smarter, and healthier players.

 ✅ Built One of the Largest Pickleball Programs in the Country – In just four months, she turned LifeTime King of Prussia into a national powerhouse. ✅ Advocate for Player Safety & Smart Training – She’s pushing for better education on paddle technology, injury prevention, and movement efficiency.

Renee Hollander is redefining what it means to be a pickleball athlete—stronger, smarter, and built for the long game. Read Renee’s full interview here.

Andy Jones | Sage of the Sidelines USA Pickleball Ambassador (Lehigh Valley, PA) | Certified Referee | Registered Referee Trainer | Advanced Training Session Assessor (ATSA) 📍 FL/PA/NJ

"I was there when the Waters family first picked up a paddle."

Andy Jones isn’t just officiating matches—she’s shaping the very foundation of pickleball officiating in the Northeast and beyond. With decades of experience in the sport, Andy has been a driving force behind the growth of pickleball communities, the expansion of dedicated courts, and the training of the next generation of referees.

A USA Pickleball Ambassador, Certified Referee, and Registered Referee Trainer, Andy has done more than call the game—she’s built it. From petitioning local townships for dedicated pickleball courts to mentoring future officials, Andy’s impact stretches far beyond the baseline. She has housed and supported some of today’s top pros before they had major sponsorships, trained referees who now officiate on the sport’s biggest stages, and was there when Anna Leigh Waters and her mother Leigh first picked up a paddle.

Her philosophy? Officiate with confidence, fairness, and heart. And that’s exactly what she’s passed down to the referees she’s trained, making her a mentor and leader in the sport.

What Makes Andy Stand Out?

 ✅ A True Pickleball Pioneer – She didn’t just find courts to play on—she created them, turning tennis courts into thriving pickleball hubs. 

✅ Mentor to the Pros – From Dekel Bar to Ben Johns, Andy has supported and housed some of pickleball’s biggest names. 

✅ The Referee’s Referee – She trains and mentors officials, ensuring the game’s integrity and professionalism continue to grow.

As a whistle warrior, Andy Jones isn’t just enforcing the rules—she’s ensuring pickleball’s future is built on fairness, professionalism, and passion. Read Andy’s full interview here.

Kaitlyn Kerr | The Global Voice of Pickleball The Pickleball Chick | Major League Team Pickleball Owner | Host of Talk Pickle to Me Podcast 📍 NYC/PA

“One governing body. One set of rules. That’s how we take this sport global.”

Kaitlyn Kerr isn’t just part of the pickleball conversation—she’s leading it. As The Pickleball Chick, a Major League Pickleball team owner, and host of Talk Pickle to Me Podcast, Kaitlyn has turned her passion for the sport into a career that’s shaping its future. From leaving behind a high-powered finance career on Wall Street to becoming one of the sport’s most recognized voices, Kaitlyn has done more than just play—she’s built a brand, a movement, and a mission to bring pickleball to the masses.

Her journey began in 2021 when she stumbled upon a group of players on a random court and instantly knew: This sport is going to change the world. In just a few years, she’s gone from a total unknown to a powerhouse in the industry—co-owning the Las Vegas Night Owls in Major League Pickleball, partnering with top brands, and working to bring pickleball to underserved communities through Pickleball Cares.

With a deep understanding of what it takes to grow the sport—from grassroots expansion to professional play—Kaitlyn is a true ambassador for pickleball’s next era. 

She’s not just playing the game; she’s building its future.

What Makes Kaitlyn Stand Out?

✅ The Ultimate Pickleball Multi-Hyphenate – Influencer, podcaster, MLP team owner, speaker—she wears all the hats. 

✅ Built Her Own Brand from Scratch – From being unknown in the pickleball world to becoming The Pickleball Chick with a massive following. 

✅ A Global Ambassador – From the U.S. to India and Dubai, she’s growing pickleball on an international scale.

With her unstoppable energy, fearless approach, and deep love for the game, Kaitlyn Kerr isn’t just talking about pickleball—she’s making it happen. Read Kaitlyn’s full interview here.

Janie Merson, Esq. | Litigator of Line Calls District Manager of the Mid-Atlantic Region of USA Pickleball | Lawyer 📍 Chester County, PA

"Pickleball gives you an instant community—wherever you go, you belong."

Janie Mershon isn’t just participating in pickleball—she’s presiding over it. A lawyer turned USA Pickleball leader, Janie brings a sharp eye for detail and a relentless passion for the game. As the District Manager of the Mid-Atlantic Region of USA Pickleball Ambassadors, she’s not only growing the sport across Pennsylvania but also ensuring it’s played the right way.

Her legal background makes her a force on and off the court—whether she’s officiating high-stakes matches, advocating for the sport’s expansion, or preparing to join the elite ranks of certified referees. With a 66-page rulebook practically memorized, she’s on track to becoming a level 2 certified referee, a rigorous process that requires 100% accuracy across multiple exams and live officiating evaluations. Her approach to the sport is simple: Learn every angle, know every rule, and always be ready to make the tough calls.

Her expertise has earned her opportunities far beyond officiating, from appearing on QVC to promote pickleball to being featured in USA Pickleball Magazine. And when she’s not enforcing the rules, she’s building a stronger pickleball community, ensuring that every player—from beginner to pro—feels part of the sport she loves.

What Makes Janie Stand Out?

✅ Lawyer-Turned-Pickleball Powerhouse – Her legal background gives her a keen eye for precision and fairness on the court.

✅ A Ref on the Rise – One of the few women pursuing certified referee status, a process that demands flawless rule knowledge and in-game decision-making. 

✅ Ambassador for the Sport – As District Manager of USA Pickleball Ambassadors, she’s helping grow and shape the game across the Northeast. 

Janie Mershon isn’t just enforcing the rules—she’s helping define the future of the game. Read Janie’s full interview here.

Hannah Rose Nussbaum | The Sultan of Shake & Bake Certified Coach at Bounce Pickleball Club | Pro Player 📍 Berwyn, PA

Hannah Rose Nussbaum isn’t just competing in pickleball—she’s building the future of it. A certified coach at Bounce Pickleball Club and a rising pro player, Hannah is at the center of Northeast pickleball’s competitive growth. With a background in college basketball and competitive tennis, she brings a unique mix of power, speed, and strategy to the game, making her one of the most relentless and dynamic players in the region.

Her journey started with a spontaneous game and a single tournament—but one match was all it took. That first event at Green Valley introduced her to pickleball mentor Jen Wang and set her on a path that quickly escalated from playing to coaching and shaping the high-level player development programs at Bounce.

“Pickleball isn’t just for old Or unathletic people. If you want, it can be as competitive, rigorous, and strategic as any other sport.”

Hannah didn’t just find success in pickleball—she built it for others. Before indoor facilities existed, she and Jen launched Powerhouse Pickleball, hosting outdoor clinics to bring more players into the game. When Bounce opened, she was the first coach to run clinics, eventually developing the 4.0 and 4.5 evaluation process and helping structure advanced programming for competitive players.

On the court, Hannah is known for her signature shake-and-bake, a move inspired by Anna Leigh Waters, and her relentless hunt for high-level games. Off the court, she’s working to elevate player training, grow the Northeast pickleball scene, and create the next generation of top talent.

What Makes Hannah Stand Out?

✅ From Player to Builder – Co-founded Powerhouse Pickleball, developed Bounce’s advanced training pipeline, and created high-level evaluation programs.

✅ Shaping the Future of Player Development – Built a pathway for advanced players at Bounce, helping bridge the gap between local talent and pro-level play.

✅ A True Competitor’s Mentality – Believes in losing to improve, seeking out stronger competition, and always pushing the limits of her game.

Hannah Rose Nussbaum isn’t just a player—she’s a force moving Northeast pickleball forward. Whether she’s competing, coaching, or developing the next wave of talent, her impact on the sport is only just beginning. Read Hannah’s full interview here.

Amanda Potter | Pickleball’s Urban Architect Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer of Ballers  📍 Philadelphia, PA

“Pickleball deserves a venue as dynamic as the sport itself.”

Amanda Potter isn’t just designing a pickleball venue—she’s redefining what a sports facility can be. As the Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer of Ballers, Amanda is spearheading a first-of-its-kind multi-sport venue that blends pickleball, padel, squash, tennis, golf, and soccer with the energy of a high-end social club.

Ballers is not just courts—it’s culture. With a background in architecture, luxury fitness, and hospitality, Amanda is bringing country club sports to the city in a way that’s never been done before. Think pickleball played under 80-foot industrial ceilings in a historic power plant, DJ nights, pop-up fashion shows, and curated art installations. Her vision? To make pickleball as much about the experience as it is about the sport.

Ballers’ flagship location in Philadelphia’s iconic Delaware Power Station is just the beginning—Los Angeles and Miami are next. Amanda is proving that pickleball deserves a venue as bold, stylish, and innovative as the game itself.

What Makes Amanda Stand Out?

✅ The Only Pickleball Space Innovator on the List – She’s not running a facility; she’s designing the future of where the sport is played.

✅ Where Sport Meets Culture – Ballers isn’t just for athletes—it’s for artists, musicians, and creatives who want to be part of the movement.

✅ A Historic Venue, A Bold Vision – Transforming an abandoned power plant into a pickleball paradise proves her eye for blending history with modernity.

Amanda Potter isn’t just changing the game—she’s building the playgrounds for the next generation. Read Amanda’s full interview here.

Michele Stroyek | Pickleball’s Power Influencer The Pickle Yogi | Owner Universal Rackets  📍 NJ/PA/FL/TX/IL

"We turned our love for pickleball into a business, our business into a movement, and our movement into an empire."

As a leading pickleball and tennis influencer with over 32,000 Instagram followers, Michele Stroyek aka ThePickleYogi is more than just a social media personality—she’s a business mogul reshaping the industry. Alongside her husband, Tyler Stroyek aka PickleballwithTyler, she co-owns Universal Rackets, a premier provider of comprehensive pickleball and tennis solutions. From clinics and private instruction to tournaments and corporate events, their company offers a full spectrum of experiences that cater to all ages and skill levels.

A former marketing and business development expert turned entrepreneur, Michele has mastered the art of turning passion into profit. While many perceive pickleball influencers as hobbyists posting content after their 9-to-5 jobs, Michele and her husband have built an empire with 37 pickleball and tennis locations—and they’re expanding into new communities weekly.

What Makes Michele Stand Out?

✅ Beyond Content—A Business Visionary – Michele isn’t just making videos; she’s scaling a multi-million-dollar company.

✅ Master of Multi-Streams – She and her husband have created multiple income streams from their love of the sport.

✅ Building a Family Legacy – With two young children, she’s balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship at the highest level.

Michele Stroyek isn’t just another pickleball influencer—she’s a pioneer of possibility. By merging business acumen with her love for the sport, she’s proving that pickleball isn’t just a pastime—it’s a powerful industry. As she and her husband continue to grow Universal Rackets, they’re setting new standards for what’s possible in the world of pickleball.

Peg Varani | The Contract Net Negotiator Pickleball Court Contract Coordinator  📍 Royersford, PA

“Inclusion matters. We need to build more adaptive pickleball programs so that everyone, regardless of ability, has access to this incredible sport.”

Pickleball thrives on competition, but without someone behind the scenes ensuring top-tier matchups and organized play, the sport wouldn’t be what it is today. Enter Peg Varani, the unofficial but essential architect of Northeast pickleball play. Peg doesn’t own a club, coach a pro team, or hold a formal title, yet her impact is undeniable—she’s the reason countless players have a place to play, compete, and level up their game year-round.

As a pickleball contract organizer, Peg manages multiple playing groups across various facilities, handling everything from scheduling to balancing competitive matchups. She’s built a pipeline for players to transition from casual rec games to higher-level competition, ensuring that those who want to improve have access to structured, challenging play with like-skilled opponents.

While many simply show up to play, Peg is behind the scenes making it all possible—and she does it without an official title, just pure passion and dedication.

What Makes Peg Stand Out?

✅ The Matchmaker of Competitive Play – Peg doesn’t just fill courts; she curates sessions that push players to improve and compete at their highest level. 

✅ A One-Woman Pickleball Operations Team – Scheduling, organizing, collecting fees, and ensuring high-quality play—Peg runs it all. 

✅ A Champion for Growth & Access – Peg is passionate about expanding adaptive pickleball programs to ensure the sport is accessible to all.

Peg Varani isn’t just organizing play—she’s shaping the competitive future of Northeast pickleball. Without her, many players wouldn’t have the opportunities, structure, or challenge needed to take their game to the next level. Read Peg’s full interview here.

Keca Ward | The Forward Visionary of Pickleball Owner, Forward Pickleball | Certified Pro Coach  📍 Audubon, PA

When it comes to pushing pickleball forward, few embody the sport’s growth like Keca Ward. As the Owner of Forward Pickleball, she’s not just running a club—she’s redefining the player experience. From the moment she first played on taped lines in Naples, she was hooked—not just on the game but on teaching, building, and innovating.

Unlike many who dream of opening a pickleball facility, Keca made it happen. She spent years researching top clubs across Florida, Texas, and Pennsylvania, determined to create a player-first space. The result? A state-of-the-art facility in Audubon, PA, where everything—from court spacing to community design—was built with intention.

But Forward Pickleball is more than just courts—it’s a culture of quality play and connection. Keca is passionate about building a community where players grow on and off the court.

“We’re not just building courts—we’re building a culture of quality pickleball.”

She also understands the importance of mindset, urging players to focus on improving, not distractions.

What Makes Keca Stand Out?

✅ Pushing Pickleball Forward – She turned a vision into reality, creating a state-of-the-art, player-first facility in Audubon, PA that redefines the club experience.

✅ Built for Players, by a Player – Forward Pickleball was designed with spacious courts, premium facilities, and a top-tier pro shop, ensuring players have everything they need to train, compete, and connect.

✅ Championing Quality Pickleball Culture – More than just a place to play, she’s cultivating a community-focused environment where players improve, pros thrive, and friendships flourish.

Through her vision, persistence, and passion, Keca isn’t just shaping the future of pickleball in Philly—she’s proving that with the right approach, the sport’s growth has no limits. Forward isn’t just her club’s name—it’s her mission. Read Keca’s full interview here.

Anna Leigh & Leigh Waters | GOAT & Mother: The Mother-Daughter Dynasty Current No. 1 Female in the World & Leading Coach of the Pros 📍 FL/NJ

From a hurricane evacuation to world domination—how Anna Leigh and Leigh Waters became the most unstoppable duo in pickleball. Some players make history. Others redefine it. Anna Leigh and Leigh have done both.

What started as a temporary escape during a hurricane evacuation turned into a career that has reshaped the sport. Anna Leigh, now the world’s No. 1 female and highest paid player, and her mother, Leigh, have built a legacy that stretches far beyond the court. Together, they’ve revolutionized women’s doubles, bringing their signature aggression and relentless drive to every match.

But their influence doesn’t stop at competition. Leigh coaches Anna Leigh, Christian Alshon, and the New Jersey 5’s Major League Pickleball team, helping guide the next wave of top talent. Meanwhile, Anna Leigh continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the sport, racking up titles, sponsorships, and setting a new standard for excellence in pickleball.

From backyard courts in Pennsylvania to center stage on national television, the Waters’ journey is proof that pickleball is no longer just a pastime—it’s a proving ground for champions.

What Makes the Waters Duo Stand Out?

✅ The No. 1 Player in the World – At just 18, Anna Leigh dominates singles and doubles rankings. ✅ From Players to Leaders – Leigh is now a top MLP coach, and coaching the next gen of pro players, shaping the next generation of elite competitors. ✅ The Face of Pickleball’s Future – Anna Leigh is leading the charge in turning pickleball into a truly professional sport.

Pickleball isn’t just a game for the Waters—it’s their empire. And they’re just getting started.

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The Female Pickleball Titans of the Northeast is a Lindsey Leigh Creative storytelling series celebrating the women who are shaping the future of the sport. 

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