In the past, the National Football League (NFL) has not been an organization known for being geared towards women, however another barrier has been broken within the organization. The Arizona Cardinals recently hired Jen Welter to the team’s coaching staff. Welter also isn’t the only female pioneer in the NFL this season. The NFL is establishing a theme of inclusiveness by also hiring Sarah Thomas as the NFL’s first female official. Thomas will be a line judge for the 2015 season.
Coach Jen Welter talks with Line Judge Sarah Thomas. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
As a female sports fan this thrills me! With the American Football being a “Man’s Game,” both of these great strides could really be a new beginning. Being a woman in this male dominated sport, there will more than likely be some double standards in Welter’s new role. In my opinion she will more than likely have to prove herself to the players she will be coaching more than a man would.
Welter played 14 seasons of professional football, mostly in the Women’s Football Alliance. She holds a master’s degree in sport psychology and a doctorate in psychology, and she won two gold medals playing for Team USA in the International Federation of American Football Women’s World Championship in 2010 and 2013. On paper she’s exceptionally more qualified than most NFL coaches. It’ll be very interesting to watch how her football career progresses. WE are rooting for you, Jen!
Jul 28, 2015; Tempe, AZ, USA; Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports