Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

Girls sports, especially basketball, is at an all-time high in terms of their popularity and participation in today's society. 20 years ago, though, I was told that "nobody cares about girls sports," which was a common belief and misconception during that time period. As a 26-year-old newly hired varsity girls' basketball coach, I sought -and still seek - to change that opinion through my athletic apparel brand for girls that matches today's players' passion and love for athletics.

How do you stay motivated?

As a former high school girls' basketball coach, motivation comes easy for me. Everyday I try to do better than than the day before. Every project I commit to is chance to out-do the one that I just completed. Team sports are a constant in our culture, but the players who make up those teams are not. Every new athletic season is a chance for me to sell a new generation of female athletes on a brand that I created just for them. With that in mind, every season I come ready to play!

What would you do with the $25,000?

Female athletes demand and deserve the best and most durable products available to help them achieve their goals both on and off the playing fields. With that said, an award of $25,000 would go a long way in helping me implement AI into our custom item online ordering systems while also adding new production equipment to ensure consistent manufacturing processes.