Bi-Coastal Connections

In late May, The Strong Girls United Team made their way across the nation for a few days filled with expanding our reach and celebrating the growth of women’s sports. 

Charlie Ekstrom, SGU assistant director of communications and outreach, was overjoyed to be reconnected with the team in her neck of the woods. “It was an amazing weekend of networking and growing the Strong Girls name and brand in Los Angeles. Living out here as our west coast arm of the team, not only was I thrilled to be reunited with the team but also to see the results that come with presence and availability. I am so excited for the partnerships to come out here.” 

Attending the NWSL Angel City vs San Diego Wave game was the perfect kickoff to the weekend. The last 10 minutes were extra energizing, with rapid fire shots on goal and exciting saves by both goalies. While the game may have ended in a tie, the energy of the teams and the crowd kept us both on our toes and even more excited for the rest of the weekend’s adventures. Supporting current and future legends of the game, Strong Girls friends of the org, and watching some incredible play on both ends of the pitch was the recipe for a successful night.  Special shoutouts go to Sierra Enge (San Diego Wave) and Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC) for taking the time to connect and snag a couple photos with our team.

Next up on the docket? A WNBA game, featuring the #1 and #2 overall draft picks from the 2024 draft facing off against one another for the first time this season. Even better than being present to watch history in action? Strong Girls United was one of the official nonprofit partners for the game, hosting a concourse table at the famed Crypto.com arena, home of the LA Sparks. With HUNDREDS of fans stopping by the table to complete affirmation posters, spin the wheel of prizes, and put on Strong Girls tattoos, we felt the west coast energy and unanimous love for women’s sports. An added bonus to hosting a table? The team got to watch two SGU alums face off against each other — Cameron Brink (FAM alum) with the LA Sparks vs. Lexie Hull with the Indiana Fever (FALC speaker). Seeing Strong Girls alumni make waves in their playing arenas is one of the things that makes us happiest. 

This night began what we hope will continue to be a very special (and long) connection/partnership with the Sparks. Strong Girls founder Lani Silversides said it best:  "We absolutely loved our West Coast trip and are incredibly grateful to the LA Sparks for inviting us to be part of the fan experience at their May 24th game against the Indiana Fever. It was a joy to see hundreds of kids and family members enjoying the game and stopping by our table, and the Sparks staff were simply incredible. We can’t thank Emilia Lopez with the Sparks enough for her help in coordination of the event, and we look forward to returning the favor and hosting some of the Sparks staff in Boston on August 20th, as the Connecticut Sun take on the Sparks at TD Garden!"

Stay tuned for more events, growth, and outreach to come across the nation. West coast, we are thrilled to connect with you.

Featured below are more images from the LA Sparks event. SO MANY STRONG GIRLS!!