Women in Sports weekend presented by Pacific Premier Bank kicked off last week at Great Park Ice and FivePoint Arena, and continued at the Honda Center. An inspirational discussion titled “Overcoming Obstacles,” featuring accomplished women in the sports industry including Upper School Physiology, Health, PFW and Swim Coach Staciana Winfield, an accomplished Olympic gold medalist and motivational speaker.

The event celebrated Women’s History Month, and trailblazers in women and girls’ sports were highlighted with the goal of inspiring the next generation of athletes and leaders in Orange County. As a guest speaker, Mrs. Winfield shared encouraging words.

“I was able to speak with a phenomenal line up of women who work in the sports industry about overcoming adversity and staying true to our authentic selves, highlighting our core values when it comes to making hard decisions and leadership in the sports world,” remarked Mrs. Winfield.

The Upper School swim coach represented the United States in the 2000 Olympic Games as a swimmer, winning an Olympic gold medal when she was just 19 years old. 

Mrs. Winfield continues, “We talked about the importance of relationships, celebrating each other's victories and guiding the next generation of women in the sports industry to advocate for themselves and navigate a successful career path through challenges.”

Mrs. Winfield and other guests in attendance had the chance to test their skills on the ice and learn the basics of hockey. A highlight of the event included Mrs. Winfield shared the experience with her daughter Kyla, who had the honor to attend the event, and learn basic hockey fundamental skills together.

The on-ice session was held on Rink 4 and led by female coaches including Annie Camins, Director of the Lady Ducks girl’s hockey program Kristi Kehoe and two-time Olympic medalist Molly Schaus.

When asked by a participant in the event a mantra Mrs. Winfield lived by to feel empowered, she responded enthusiastically with her favorite two daily mantras: “Do one thing a day that scares you, and radiate positivity.”

The second annual Women in Sports Business and Leadership panel included inspirational female athletes and trailblazers headlined by Jeanie Buss, Annie Camins, Mackenzie Dern, Helene Elliott and Denise White.