She Is Football
Empowering women to own the game—whether as fans, players, or fantasy champions.
Empowering women to own the game—whether as fans, players, or fantasy champions.
She Is Football was a transformative weekend event celebrating women’s empowerment in sports. The football weekend presented by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers focused on a community initiative aimed at empowering and supporting female leaders through a series of events. It featured leadership summits, football tournaments, and vibrant markets, all aimed at fostering a community of inspired and connected women.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced the inaugural She Is Football Weekend, a two-day celebration of women’s leadership and empowerment. Taking place on March 7-8, 2025, this event was designed to inspire a new generation of female leaders in sports and beyond. Presented by Jabil, a major employer in the Tampa Bay region, this event promised to be an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
The She Is Football Weekend was more than just a series of events; it was a movement aimed at fostering a community of inspired and connected women. By bringing together female leaders, athletes, and entrepreneurs, the event sought to create a supportive network that encouraged growth, learning, and empowerment. From leadership summits to football tournaments, every aspect of the weekend was crafted to celebrate and uplift women, making it a landmark event in the Tampa Bay area.
The commencement of the She Is Football Weekend was marked by the eagerly awaited football women's summit, an event aimed at fostering empowerment and creating connections among women from varied backgrounds. My participation in Friday’s networking opportunity established a positive foundation for what unfolded over the weekend. This gathering transcended mere discussions about football. It encompassed contributions from female leaders across multiple sectors, providing a rich exchange of thoughts and motivation.
When registering, participants had the choice to enroll in one of four specialized paths: Business of Sports, Launching Your Career, Master Class in Leadership, or Reinvention & The Entrepreneurial Journey. I chose to explore the Entrepreneurial Journey with enthusiasm to nurture my project called Fan Girl Football—an initiative that invited women into fantasy football through learning and play.
Each educational path provided intensive exploration featuring insights shared by influential Tampa Bay area women leaders, equipping those who attended with practical knowledge and rejuvenating their ambitions.
The Weekend Presented by Jabil was an exhilarating two-day event, brimming with initiatives geared towards the empowerment of women. This special occasion included a bustling marketplace dedicated to women-owned businesses at the AdventHealth Training Center. Visitors immersed themselves in this market’s atmosphere while indulging in live music, tasting a variety of delectable offerings from local food trucks, and exploring distinctive wares crafted by skilled artisans and entrepreneurs.
Funds raised during the event were directed towards programs that supported young girls in sports, fostering leadership and empowerment, and ensuring greater participation of girls in athletic activities.
The excitement escalated with a girls’ flag football tournament that took center stage over the weekend. This sporting event wasn’t just about competition. It embodied a tribute to female sportsmanship and leadership—setting out to motivate and bolster young women looking up to their role models.
Promising myriad captivating activities for participants, the Weekend Presented by Jabil stood as more than mere entertainment—it offered memorable moments sure to leave lasting impressions on all who took part.
The She Is Football Weekend schedule was packed with exciting events and activities, including:
She Is Football Women’s Summit: Held at Raymond James Stadium, this summit featured breakout sessions and mentorship opportunities with influential leaders from various industries. Attendees could choose from specialized paths such as Business of Sports, Launching Your Career, Master Class in Leadership, or Reinvention & The Entrepreneurial Journey, ensuring a tailored and enriching experience.
She Is Football 5K Run, Walk & Stroll: Taking place at the AdventHealth Training Center, this inclusive event welcomed participants of all ages and skill levels. Whether you were a seasoned runner or preferred a leisurely stroll, this 5K was a fantastic way to stay active and support initiatives aimed at keeping young girls involved in sports.
She Is Football Market: Showcasing women-owned businesses, this vibrant market provided a platform for female entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and grow. Visitors could explore a variety of unique products and services, all while supporting local women-led enterprises.
She Is Football Girls Flag Football Tournament: Featuring Florida’s top high school teams, this tournament was a highlight of the weekend. Over two days, teams from Hillsborough and Pinellas counties competed, showcasing their skills and passion for the game. This event not only celebrated athleticism but also promoted leadership and teamwork among young female athletes.
These events were designed to promote women’s empowerment, leadership development, and community engagement, while also celebrating the achievements of women in sports and beyond. The She Is Football Weekend was a testament to the power of sports in fostering confidence, leadership, and a sense of community among women of all ages.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were at the forefront of promoting women’s empowerment within the realm of sports. By implementing programs like Jr. Bucs, they involved more than 35,000 middle school girls in flag football each year to ignite their passion for the sport and endorse regular physical activity. The Glazer family had a broader goal to cultivate approximately 50,000 female leaders every year through various athletic endeavors facilitated by organizations such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Foundation and its NFL counterpart.
Demonstrated through initiatives like She Is Football Weekend, this dedication was aimed at forming an encouraging network where women could bond and uplift one another. The Buccaneers placed emphasis not only on increasing participation in sports among young females but also on instilling attributes that would equip them with skills necessary for triumph across diverse spheres of life.
During the She Is Football Weekend, the Women-Owned Businesses Market stood as a central hub of female-led enterprise. It served as an empowering space for women entrepreneurs to showcase and market their offerings. Strategically positioned at the heart of