Meet Stephanie Rodriguez, this month’s member spotlight as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
Current Position: Account Executive, Golden State Valkyries
Favorite Sports Team: San Francisco Giants
Favorite Sports Moment: Matt Cain’s perfect game
Heritage: Mexican American
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
For me, Hispanic heritage month means holding space and recognizing our community for everything we do. Now is an especially important time to recognize those of Latin American and Hispanic descent and show support.
Any Advice?
For fellow young Latinx sports professionals I would just tell them, there is space for us in the industry. Be confident in yourself, know that you belong, and you’re not alone!
Growing up, Stephanie was always interested in the sports and entertainment industry but felt as if it was never an attainable goal. According to a study done by McKinsey & Company, “women reported being 2.8 times more likely to leave their job when they don’t feel included.” While this is true, Rodriguez recognized a strong representation of a woman in sports by watching Amy Gutierrez, also known as Amy G, a Bay Area Native and sideline reporter for the San Francisco Giants.
While completing her degree at San Francisco State University, Rodriguez began working part time for the San Jose Earthquakes in guest services and began her journey in the sports industry. Through her work at the Earthquakes, Rodriguez has been able to transition into a full-time role with the newest WNBA expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries.
As a young woman of Mexican American descent, there are many aspects of her culture she incorporates in her professional career; the most important being family and community. Rodriguez uses both to create connections and foster growth and expanded community through sports.
Hispanic Heritage month, first established as a week-long under President Lyndon B. Johnson is now a month-long celebration in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan. The month celebrates the rich culture, history and contributions made by those of Latino descent to the United States. For Rodriguez, Hispanic Heritage month means, “holding space and recognizing our community for everything we do. Now is an especially important time to recognize those of Latin American and Hispanic descent and show support.”
To close, a piece of advice that Stephanie would share with young Latinx professionals seeking to enter the sports is simple – “Be confident in yourself, know that you belong.”