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Sarah Schkeeper, known as “The Viking,” made a lasting impact as a guard for the New York Sharks in professional women’s football. With her tenacity and skill, she helped establish the team as the most successful in history. Schkeeper’s dedication to the sport, both on and off the field, inspires all who follow her journey.
Katie Sowers (born August 7, 1986) is an American football coach in the National Football League (NFL). She made history as the first openly gay and first female coach in Super Bowl history. Sowers began her football career playing in the Women’s Football Alliance before joining the NFL in 2016. She currently works in the athletic department of Ottawa University.
Jennifer Welter is an American football coach who has made a significant impact in the world of professional football. Born on October 27, 1977, she has broken barriers and shattered stereotypes throughout her career. Welter’s accomplishments have not only solidified her place in football history but have also inspired and motivated countless individuals.
Callie Brownson (born October 15, 1989) is an American football coach and player who is currently the assistant wide receivers coach for the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League (NFL). She has made significant strides in breaking barriers for women in football and has been recognized for her skills and contributions to the sport.
Ashley Martin (born c. 1981) is an American athlete who made history as the first woman to play and score in an NCAA Division I American football game. On August 30, 2001, she accomplished this remarkable feat as a placekicker for the Jacksonville State University Gamecocks, simultaneously becoming one of the first women to score points in any college football game. Martin’s groundbreaking achievement left an indelible mark on the world of sports.
Alissa Wykes, a former American football running back, made her mark on the sports world as both an accomplished athlete and a trailblazer. After honing her skills on the softball field, Wykes joined the Philadelphia Liberty Belles and quickly became known for her exceptional talents as a running back. Her impact extended beyond sports when she courageously came out as gay, sparking important conversations and paving the way for LGBTQ+ athletes. Through her determination and advocacy, Wykes challenged societal norms and helped create a more inclusive sports community.
Elizabeth Heaston Thompson, born in 1977, is an American athlete who holds the distinction of being the first woman ever to score in a college football game. Her remarkable achievement took place on October 18, 1997, as a placekicker for the Willamette Bearcats football team at Willamette University, which was part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) for small colleges. Alongside her football prowess, Liz Heaston also excelled in women’s soccer as a defender.
Luverne Nora Wise Albert, born in 1922 in Atmore, Alabama, was a pioneering American football player. She made history as the first female to score on a men’s team, breaking gender norms and paving the way for future generations of female athletes. Despite limited opportunities for women during her time, Luverne’s determination and athletic abilities were instrumental in breaking barriers and inspiring others.
Tonya Lynn Butler made history as the first woman to score a field goal in a college football game. Starting her journey in high school, she showcased her skills as a placekicker for Riverdale High School. She continued her impressive career in college and eventually joined the University of West Alabama Tigers, where she scored a 27-yard field goal in the opening game of the 2003 season. Butler’s groundbreaking accomplishment shattered barriers and inspired future generations of female athletes. Died:
Patricia Palinkas (née Barczi, born 1943) is credited as the first woman to play American football professionally in a league made predominantly of men. While she may not have been a prominent figure in women’s football, her impact on breaking gender barriers in the sport is noteworthy.
Katharine Anne Hnida, known as Katie Hnida, broke barriers in American football as the first woman to score in an NCAA Division I-A game. She displayed exceptional talent in high school, catching the attention of Teen People magazine and sports journalist Rick Reilly. After facing setbacks due to illness, Hnida transferred to the University of New Mexico, where she scored two extra points in a game, solidifying her place in history. Hnida also raised awareness about sexual assault in sports, sparking important discussions and prompting universities to take action.
Julie Harshbarger (born December 9, 1985) is an American football placekicker who has made a significant impact in the world of professional football. She is most known for being the first woman to score a field goal in Indoor football, as a member of the Chicago Cardinals of the Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL). Her achievements have made her an inspiration to many, breaking barriers and paving the way for other women in the sport.
Linda Jefferson, a trailblazer in women’s football, broke through societal barriers with her exceptional talent and athleticism. As a member of the Toledo Troopers in the 1970s, Jefferson’s electrifying performances captivated football fans nationwide. Her six-year winning streak and numerous accolades solidify her status as a symbol of excellence and inspiration for women in sports. Inducted into the Semi-Pro Football Hall of Fame and the American Association Football Hall of Fame, Jefferson shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for future generations of female athletes.
Isra Hirsi, born in 2003, is an American environmental activist and co-founder of the U.S. Youth Climate Strike. Her dedication to addressing climate change has made her a prominent figure in the fight for environmental justice. Hirsi’s passion for advocacy stems from her upbringing in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and her mother’s political career. She has organized numerous student-led strikes and has been recognized for her impactful work, receiving awards such as the Brower Youth Award and being named in Fortune’s 40 Under 40 Government and Politics list. Hirsi continues her activism while pursuing higher education at Barnard College.
Sarah Fuller (born June 20, 1999) is a retired American soccer goalkeeper and football player. She made history as the first woman to play in a football game for a Power Five conference team. Throughout her career, Fuller displayed immense talent and determination, breaking barriers and inspiring others.
Natalie Randolph is a remarkable individual who has made significant contributions in the fields of education, athletics, and breaking gender barriers. She has been a trailblazer and an inspiration to many, proving that with determination and passion, one can achieve anything they set their mind to.