What is the NSGA Women's Leadership Forum?
The National Sporting Goods Association was proud to introduce the NSGA Women’s Leadership Forum: Empowered Leadership for a Stronger Industry — a dedicated space designed to connect, elevate and empower women leaders across the sporting goods industry.
This inaugural forum, took place Sunday, May 17th at the NSGA 2026 Leadership Conference, reflecting the evolving leadership landscape within our industry and the growing influence of women shaping retail, team sports, manufacturing, distribution and brand strategy. The session provided networking opportunities, meaningful dialogue, shared experiences and actionable insights for professionals at every stage of their leadership journey.
The forum concluded with a candid panel discussion moderated by Rachelle Manning – Senior Channel Manager, SanMar Sports and feature panelists Lynn Burghardt – President, Chipply, Devri Christensen – Vice President of Key Accounts, PROLOOK, and Jessica Rose-Huggins – Chief Operating Officer, Denver Athletic.
Attendees experienced:
- Real-world leadership stories and perspectives
- Insight into overcoming challenges and leveraging opportunities
- Thoughtful conversation about representation, growth and innovation
- An energizing environment focused on community and forward momentum
Save the Date for Next Year
Photo: (from left) Becca Carrell and Britney Mueller of OrderMyGear at the NSGA 2023 Leadership Conference
Photo: (from left) Grace Schettler of Chipply and Missy Franklin
Photo: (from left) Anessa Fritch of Cap America and Julia Sherman of Bashor's Team Athletics