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
Building Momentum. Expanding Networks. Inspiring Leaders
Building on the success of our inaugural gathering, the NSGA Women’s Leadership Forum returns as a cornerstone session at the upcoming NSGA 2027 Leadership Conference, taking place May 23-26 at The Wigwam in Phoenix, Arizona.
Designed specifically for female leaders in the sporting goods industry, the Forum creates a dedicated space to discuss sector-specific challenges, share strategic insights and cultivate actionable business partnerships.
Whether you attended our debut session or are joining us for the first time in Phoenix, the 2027 Women’s Leadership Forum offers an expanded program focused on executive growth, industry advocacy, and peer mentorship.
Save the Date/RegisterWhat to Expect at the 2027 Women's Leadership Forum
- Executive Insights & Keynote Perspective: Hear candid strategies from senior leaders navigating supply chains, dealer relations, retail operations, talent retention and more.
- Curated Peer Discussions: Participate in interactive, small-group problem-solving sessions tackling issues and priorities facing sporting goods businesses today.
- Focused Networking Reception: Connect directly with fellow female founders, C-suite executives, and regional retail leaders On Wednesday morning, after the NSGA Leadership Conference concludes.
- Mentorship & Career Pipelines: Concrete pathways for developing next-generation talent and leadership succession within retail and team sports organizations.
Why Attend?
- Industry- Specific Collaboration: Move beyond generic leadership advice with discussions rooted strictly in the realities of the sporting goods industry.
- High-Value Connections: Build relationships with peers who face your exact business hurdles – from margin pressures to vendor management.
- Immediate Business Takeaways: Leave with actionable frameworks to foster stronger team culture, drive retention, and expand your executive presence.
Session Update
