Although the topic of “women in sport” is commonly discussed, I think the importance of having female role models is still too often overlooked. Having a relatable, female role model in a young girl’s community has the ability to change the way she thinks about herself and her sport. I still remember the day I had one of my first strength practices with LNR when I was a young, scrawny middle schooler. I was pretty timid, and not at all confident in my lifting abilities. However, after watching my older female teammates doing 10+ pull-ups, I thought to myself “well if they can do it then I probably can one day”. It seems like common sense, but it really holds its truth- when you see other girls working hard or achieving their dreams, you identify with them and begin to believe that you can achieve the same things.

(Finishing a high school race with Dottie Anderson and Pre-Race huddle before a JNQ)

Along with my mom, I have had female coaches, friends, teammates, and so many community members that have inspired me, encouraged me, and shown me what it looks like to be a strong female athlete. I really do believe that it is because of these women that I am the person and athlete I am today. This being said, there is so much room for us to become even better role models for the next generation of female athletes. As a professional skier, I have received so much from this sport, and it’s time for me to give back. I believe it is now my responsibility to use my platform to be a role model and inspire the women and girls in my community. I encourage you to do the same!

Every woman reading this can become a role model to those in their community. Being a role model could look like introducing your next-door neighbor kid to a sport you love, or perhaps taking the time to go skiing with the younger girls on your club team. It could look like being real with the people around you about your aspirations and dreams and encouraging the girls you know to dream big as well. It could look like becoming a coach for your local ski program, or simply living your life in a way that others can look up to. Whatever way you choose to be a role model, know that you have the power to make such a difference in the lives around you.