Football has long been a male-dominated sport, but women are making significant strides both on and off the field, breaking barriers and proving that passion, dedication, and skill know no gender. In Tennessee, several inspiring women are reshaping the landscape of football, and their impact is being felt across communities—especially among young girls who dream of being part of the sport they love.
Future For Football is an initiative of the National Football Foundation, created to highlight the lessons and values that football imparts. Get involved and sign up to play today by visiting Future for Football for resources, a League Locator tool, and much more.
One trailblazer is the Tennessee Titans’ female defensive quality control coach, Lori Locust, a pioneer in the NFL. She became the first female position coach in the NFL and third female full-time assistant coach in NFL history in March 2019 (with Tampa Bay at the time). She was also one of the first female coaches to win a Super Bowl in 2021. Her role not only highlights her expertise but also symbolizes a shift in football culture—showing that women belong in coaching roles at the highest level. Her journey can help inspire many women to pursue careers in football, both in coaching and other pivotal roles within the sport.
Beyond the field, the Titans are led by female owner, Amy Adams Strunk, who has become a symbol of leadership and perseverance. The team’s female owner is a powerful figure within the organization and a huge inspiration to females in the community. Her influence reaches far beyond football, as she demonstrates that women can excel in high-level business positions within the sports industry. Through her work, she continues to empower women to strive for leadership roles, not just in sports, but in any arena where they aim to make a difference. Amy works to connect with all fans, but especially the female fans, such as the group “Ladies of Titans”. Being able to connect with her at tailgates, luncheons, practices and other events has been a real pleasure for us female fans.
The impact of women in football extends to the collegiate level as well. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) boasts a female Associate Athletic Director overseeing Fan Engagement and Licensing, Chelsea Floyd, who is deeply involved in promoting football (and other athletics) within the community. Her efforts in fan engagement, particularly with young girls, are pivotal in shaping the next generation of football enthusiasts. Little girls in the community look up to her, seeing in her the potential they have to participate in the game they love. I love that women can be involved in many aspects of the game. Chelsea says, “This is the most fulfilling career I could have ever chosen. My job is engaging our fan base through advertisement and branding.” She loves being involved with licensing where she gets to help MTSU’s retail partners get Blue Raider merchandise in their stores for their fans to shop. You can find her at every MTSU home game, getting the fans involved in games, giveaways and other excitement on the field. She is always the best dressed in attendance to. What an inspiration!
These women are not only breaking new ground in football, but they are also serving as role models for girls and women everywhere. They prove that with determination and a love for the game, women can contribute to football in meaningful and transformative ways. By stepping into leadership positions and excelling in various roles, they are showing that football truly is a game for everyone.
As we celebrate the achievements of these women, we also celebrate the growing opportunities for females in football—whether it’s on the field, in the front office, or in the stands cheering on their favorite team. Their contributions are changing the narrative, and young girls are watching, learning, and dreaming of their own futures in the sport. The future of football is brighter because of them.
Read more about our partners by visiting Future for Football and find more inspirational stories like these!
