Sideline Shorts: Integrity Volleyball

In this inspiring episode of "For The Love of Sport," hosts Simon and Marie are joined by Danette Leighton, CEO of the Women's Sports Foundation (WSF). Danette's illustrious career in sports marketing and leadership roles, including her tenure with the Pac-12 Conference and Maloof Sports & Entertainment, has uniquely positioned her to lead WSF in its mission to empower women and girls through sports.

The discussion covers a range of topics, from Danette's personal youth sports experiences to the transformative power of sports for young girls. Danette provides insights into WSF's initiatives, including funding and advocacy strategies, and highlights the organization's 50th-anniversary celebrations.

As the episode coincides with a note on International Women's Day (March 8th), it underscores the importance of gender equality in athletics. Listeners are invited to join the movement in supporting WSF's mission to ensure girls and women have equal opportunities in sports through donations and participation in initiatives like National Girls & Women in Sports Day.

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Additional Resources:

Women's Sports Foundation is  turning 50! WSF provides fantastic resources that help girls and women recognize the role that sports can play in their lives and help them achieve their goals on and off the field. To learn how to support this amazing organization and continue to empower girls and women around the world, head to their website or  donate to the Women's Sports Foundation.

We Play Interactive -formerly known as GoGirlGo! – is a new digital resource that enhances the work of coaches and program leaders who are inspiring girls and teaching them how to lead active and healthy lifestyles.

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It's a new ball game in this episode of "For The Love of Sport." Join hosts Simon and Marie for the debut episode of their Sideline Shorts Series, where they shine a spotlight on youth sports organizations across the country. Up first is this dynamic husband-wife duo sharing their love of sport with Integrity Volleyball.

Founders Rafael Lopez & Isabel Domenech join Simon and Marie at the AVCA Convention to discuss their belief in the importance of a positive learning environment, character development, and respect as the foundation for success. They delve into their mission of teaching valuable skills to the next generation of athletes on and off the court.

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New to sport guide | Volleyball 

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Simon and Marie are going for gold in this episode of "For The Love of Sport."  Just in time for Girls and Women in Sports Day, and the 2024 Paris Games 6-month countdown, they interview Molly Solomon, Executive Producer and President of NBC Olympics Production. With a career of over three decades, Molly has played a crucial role in bringing iconic sports moments to our screens. 

Hear Molly's journey from a researcher for NBC's Olympics coverage to becoming the first female executive producer for a national sports network. Beyond her professional achievements, Molly also opens up about her experience as a mother of triplets, discussing their youth sports adventures and the challenges of balancing priorities as a new parent. 

Tune in for an insightful and entertaining episode, and mark your calendar for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games starting on July 26th!

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Episode Sponsor: Women's Sports Foundation

February 7, 2024, marks the 38th Annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day®, which was co-founded and continues to be powered by the Women’s Sports Foundation. The Foundation will commemorate its 50th anniversary during the national day of celebration and advocacy, which recognizes all the girls and women who play and lead and inspires them to realize their full power through the benefit of sports. To learn how to join this year's NGWSD celebrations, head to WomensSportsFoundation.org.

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Welcome back to a new season of "For The Love of Sport!" Hosts Simon and Marie are joined by Kirsten Jones, a former Division I volleyball player, Nike executive turned motivational speaker, and Peak Performance Coach, for a crazy season three debut episode. Kirsten shares insights on parenting for the "long game," emphasizing the importance of supporting your athlete and nurturing their love for the game from an early age. 

The conversation delves into navigating the challenges of youth sports, the impact of coaching on a child's passion, and maintaining a growth mindset. Kirsten also discusses her journey, from her volleyball days to working at Nike and her current podcast host and author role.

Book Giveaway

Want to win a free edition of 'Raising Empowered Athletes?' Send us a fun youth sports story with your athlete along to our email ftlospod@nbcuni.com for a chance to win one of four free editions of Kirsten's book and for your story to be featured on the next podcast. *Offer ends 03/01/2024, must be 18 or older to enter, restrictions may apply.

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Wrap up the year with a bow and join hosts Simon and Marie in a jolly journey through the past year of "For The Love of Sport." In this festive holiday episode, our dynamic duo is joined by the show's producers, Joe Brezonik and Kelsey Erwin, for a holiday celebration. 

Joe and Kelsey flip the script, turning the tables on Simon and Marie with a flurry of fun questions that'll answer all your burning questions about the show. Unwrap the origins of the podcast, savor cherished memories, and enjoy a sporty spin on a holiday-themed "this or that" segment. It's a sleigh full of laughter, a dash of reflection, and a sprinkle of holiday joy, making this episode the perfect present for youth sports enthusiasts.

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Take a deep dive into the newest installment of the "For The Love of Sport" podcast as hosts Simon and Marie are joined by the legendary swimmer Rowdy Gaines. As a three-time Olympic gold medalist, Rowdy's name is synonymous with excellence in swimming. Beyond his stellar athletic achievements, Rowdy has seamlessly transitioned into the role of a celebrated sports broadcaster, captivating audiences worldwide with his infectious enthusiasm and insightful storytelling. 

The conversation delves into Rowdy's youth sports experiences, his early encounters with swimming, and the enduring lessons that have shaped his remarkable journey. From Olympic glory to his advocacy for youth sports, Rowdy shares his passion for swimming's positive impact on young athletes. The episode explores the sport's growth, the keys to retention at the grassroots level, and the values that make swimming distinctive. Rowdy discusses his current career as the "Voice of Swimming," leaving listeners with a glimpse into his engaging personality through a lively round of "This or That" and insights into his most memorable swim calls. Don't miss this engaging and informative episode with a true icon of the water.

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Learn More:

Check out Rowdy Gaines'  lifesaving organization Step Into Swim and learn how he's helping to teach communities vital skills.

Hut hut hike! Welcome back to another episode of "For The Love of Sport," where our hosts Simon and Marie welcome Damon Phillips, the Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Head of Diversity and Inclusion at NBC Sports Group. Damon, a former Stanford football player, is a prominent leader in sports and media, driving key initiatives, boosting NBC Sports audience engagement, and advocating for diversity and inclusion.

Damon shares insights on the importance of diversity and inclusivity in youth sports, reflecting on his experiences. He delves into his previous role with USA Football, emphasizing coaching certifications, helping parents navigate the sports landscape, player development, and mental health support. Damon shares with Simon and Marie his personal experiences as a sports dad, offering advice for parents new to youth sports and those considering coaching their children. 

Also, if you're an NBA2k fan, this is an episode you don't want to miss!

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Who says cooler weather has to stop golf? In this episode of "For The Love of Sport," hosts Simon and Marie are joined by Chief Development Officer Jeff Clark and National Events Manager Rachel Miller from the awesome organization Youth on Course. The conversation starts with a deep dive into their experiences with youth sports and how these formative moments led them to be part of Youth on Course's mission.

Listen in to learn all about an organization dedicated to providing young golfers affordable access to the sport. Jeff and Rachel shed light on the organization's origins, core values, and role in shaping youth sports' future. Simon and Marie hear about the coolest initiatives within Youth on Course, including the intriguing "100 Hole Hike." Jeff and Rachel explain what this unique event is all about and how it's making a difference.

The discussion continues as they explore how organizations like Youth on Course can revolutionize the youth sports experience, making it more accessible and inclusive.

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Get ready for a captivating episode as For the Love of Sport podcast hosts Simon and Marie welcome Gary Charles, the CEO of Advancement of Blacks in Sports (ABIS), to  For The Love of Sport. Gary's life journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to empowering young athletes and promoting inclusivity and equity in the sports world.

This episode dives deep into Gary's diverse background, from his days on Wall Street to founding grassroots basketball programs that played a pivotal role in the careers of several NBA players. Today, Gary leads ABIS, an organization dedicated to expanding opportunities for Black coaches, athletes, administrators, and vendors in collegiate and professional sports.

Throughout his life, Gary's passion for sports has been the driving force behind his tireless efforts to eliminate barriers and uplift young Black athletes. In this episode, Simon and Marie ask about his youth sports experiences and how they shaped his vision for ABIS. Listen in and gain valuable insights from Mr. Gary Charles on breaking down barriers and empowering the next generation of Black athletes!

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Welcome back, dear listener! In this episode, Simon and Marie sit with special guests Matt Wixon and Steven Doherty from Frisco ISD. They share their profound love for sports and their respective journeys in youth sports. Hear valuable insights as Matt and Steve discuss essential tips for parents looking to select sports programs for their children and share their secret ingredients for crafting lasting and meaningful sports memories.

Simon and Marie also explore how Frisco ISD is revolutionizing the world of youth sports. They learn about the innovative steps taken by Frisco ISD, which involves broadcasting their school games. They share the origins of their brilliant move and the impact on students and athletes who have been able to participate in this program and grow new skills.  Don't miss out on this exciting episode filled with valuable sports insights and game-changing ideas.

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