Women continue to be a force in the world of sports, and we’re here to discuss them further!
Join us for my new blog feature: Women in Sports Wednesday.
On select Wednesdays, I highlight a different badass woman who is making a name for themselves in the world of college or professional sports.
#WISW aims to recognize the achievements of women in the sports industry as well as promote opportunities for younger girls who strive to be just like them one day.
This stacked lineup comes from a variety of backgrounds, work in different sports, and have unique roles. Stay tuned to learn more about these amazing women and their impressive careers in sports.
In the 3 spot... Campbell Hutcherson, Assistant Softball Coach at George Mason University.
Name: Campbell Hutcherson
Team: George Mason University Softball
Role: Assistant Softball Coach
Education:
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Sports Administration
Athletic Career :
UNC Division I, ACC Conference (Softball)
Infielder (1B, 2B)
Favorite Memory: My favorite memory is playing in the Oxford Regional freshman year at Ole Miss. We made one of the best runs in Carolina Softball history and battled back to the championship game. Although we did not advance to the Super Regional, I will never forget our chartered flight, and time spent in Oxford.
What made you pursue a career in the sports industry?
Campbell: I would say that about halfway through my collegiate playing career I began to consider coaching as a potential career path. I majored in Exercise and Sport Science and minored in Coaching Education at UNC-Chapel Hill and really enjoyed the subject material of those classes and all of my professors. I had also been blessed by having some really good coaches throughout my playing career, and I wanted to give back to the game that I love so much by hopefully becoming a great coach for those players who come behind me. In addition, playing for --- and learning from – Coach Papa, who is a Hall of Fame inductee, provided great inspiration for me in terms of pursuing my dream of becoming a collegiate coach because I could see how much joy teaching, coaching and mentoring student-athletes brought her on a daily basis, and she’s been doing it for over 40 years! Finally, my parents have always encouraged me to pursue a career doing something about which I am passionate, and having the opportunity to impact young women during such a pivotal stage in their lives, when they are juggling academics, athletics and the demands of being a student-athlete, is an honor and a privilege for me.
Favorite part of your current job?
Campbell: Going to work each day is a true blessing. I feel as if I am living out my dream. To be put in the position to impact young adults in a pivotal point in their life is something that I do not take for granted. My favorite part is absolutely the interactions I have with my student-athletes: getting to hear their backgrounds, learning about their families, helping them reach their fullest potential, and sharing a common passion which is the game of softball. I want to leave this game a better sport, and I want these young women to feel empowered, and ready to take on the real full world after they graduate. I will do everything in my power to equip these women with the tools to do so.
Most challenging part of your current job?
Campbell: The most challenging part of my job is being away from my family. Often times I spend long days at the field, or on the road recruiting, which does not leave me for much time at home. I put my faith and my family first in everything that I do- so, on these long days or nights away, I am challenged the most.
What does it mean to you to be a woman in sports?
Campbell: To be a woman in sports means to pave the way for those who are coming behind and look up to you. It means being confident, taking a stand, having a voice, and understanding that you belong. I am blessed to be surrounded each day by fellow strong women whether that be co-workers or student-athletes.
What advice would you give to younger girls who one day want to work in the sports industry?
Campbell: My advice is to understand that there is an opportunity awaiting you. You absolutely belong in the sports world, and you may not have a set path from the start but your journey is constantly evolving. There is so much change that needs to occur, so why can't it be you? Understand that you will reach your end goal as I am a firm believer that God has a plan for you. The road you take to get there may not be what you thought. However, stay the course and follow your dreams. It will be well worth it in the end.