Champion Quote by Jennifer Welter
“Sport industry is not women versus men. My biggest champions a lot of the times in my career have been those men. Not that women necessarily wouldn't, but if there are no women in the room and the door is locked, it takes a guy to unlock the door for you and let you in. We have to get better at working together in that regard, as opposed to feeling like we need to crash the door down. You don't need to bring out the ax; sometimes you can just knock. And sometimes guys will open the door for you, but for so many women who felt like they had to fight so hard, we forget that they may be allies.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast on Women in Sports Leadership, 2023
Women often rely on male allies to gain access in male‑dominated fields; collaboration can replace confrontation.
In simple terms: Women need allies, not conflict.
Key Takeaway
Seek collaborative allies.
Themes
gender equality
collaboration
leadership
workplace dynamics
Mood
determined
hopeful
Type
advisory
inspirational
When to use this quote
- corporate meetings
- sports team negotiations
- career advancement
- networking events
Key Concepts
Allyship
systemic barriers
Questions to Reflect On
- How can women build supportive networks without depending on men?
- What structures can reduce gatekeeping?
A Different Perspective
Relying on men may reinforce power imbalances and limit women's agency.
![“Bernie [Ecclestone] is the commercial rights holder so the more outgoing the champion is, the better. Of course. I also do think about our sport and want to make an effort - but in my own way. I am Nico [Rosberg] and not Lewis [Hamilton]!” quote by Bernie Ecclestone](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/15c/bernie-ecclestone-8452_champion_bernie-ecclestone-is-the-commercial-righ_2948.jpg)
