In celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Month, Old Westbury Athletics hosted a panel on Tuesday, February 25th, during common hour in the Panther’s Pad. The event was both powerful and insightful, highlighting women from various sectors of the sports industry. The panel was a unique opportunity for students and attendees to engage in meaningful conversations with professionals who have made significant contributions to athletics.
The panel brought together influential women from diverse backgrounds, each offering a wealth of experience and personal insights. They shared their journeys, discussed the challenges they’ve faced, and highlighted the lessons they’ve learned along the way, inspiring those in attendance to pursue their own careers in sports.
Gail Wasmus, a former coach at Division II New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), kicked off the panel by providing a deep dive into her decades-long coaching career. Wasmus spoke about how coaching methods have evolved over time and reflected on how the relationship between coaches and players has transformed across generations. She emphasized the importance of adapting coaching styles to meet the needs of today’s athletes, and how creating positive relationships with players can enhance their growth and performance both on and off the field.
Melissa Reilly, the commissioner of the Skyline Conference, passionately discussed her career in sports administration and her path to leadership. As one of the few women in such a prominent role in collegiate athletics, Reilly shared how her experiences as a collegiate athlete prepared her for the challenges of managing a conference. Reilly also encouraged the attendees to consider leadership roles in sports, reinforcing the message that women have the power to shape the future of athletics.
Ali Castellano, one of Old Westbury’s very own athletic trainers, shared her insights into the critical role athletic trainers play behind the scenes in ensuring athletes’ health and performance. Castellano discussed her passion for injury prevention, rehabilitation, and empowering athletes to reach their full potential. She spoke about the growing recognition of athletic trainers as essential members of athletic teams and how her career in sports medicine allows her to make a direct impact on athletes’ success by keeping them healthy and competitive.
Jerilyn Marinan, a former Division I soccer athlete and current assistant soccer coach at Old Westbury, offered her perspective on the commitment and discipline required to succeed in sports. She highlighted the unique challenges faced by women in sports and how resilience and adaptability have shaped her career. As a coach, Marinan is passionate about helping female athletes develop both their skills and their confidence, stressing the importance of building mental toughness to succeed in athletics and life.
The panel provided an invaluable opportunity for students, faculty, and community members to hear firsthand from these trailblazing women, each of whom has navigated a different path in the sports industry. Whether aspiring to be a coach, administrator, athletic trainer, or player, attendees gained valuable insights into the many opportunities available in sports and how to navigate the challenges of a career in athletics.
Each speaker’s personal story demonstrated the significant progress women have made in athletics and the ongoing efforts needed to break barriers and expand opportunities. The event also highlighted the importance of empowering future generations of female athletes and professionals to take on leadership roles in sports. The inspiring discussions were a testament to the growth and empowerment of women in sports, leaving attendees motivated and equipped with the tools to succeed in their own careers.
