Ellen Franklin

Two years ago, I called a friend and said, “I have this crazy idea—and I can’t stop thinking about it.” She told me I was on to something. And just like that, I got to work.

What began as a spark turned into something bigger: a vision that reflects my hopes for our youth, for women in leadership, and for the future of community sports. I connected with all of the university and community resources available to new entrepreneurs, and I quickly learned that starting something new takes far more than passion—it takes persistence, humility, and a willingness to learn fast and keep going. I’ve done all three.

As a product of the Title IX generation, I’m deeply grateful for the women (and men!) who fought to make sports more inclusive. But I also worry. I worry that youth sports are becoming too exclusive, too intense, too focused on perfection instead of growth. I worry about the toll it’s taking on kids’ physical and mental health—and on families trying to keep up.

I believe that youth sports can be a force for good. I believe that all kids—regardless of experience, body type, ability, identity, race, or income—deserve a place to play and belong. I also believe this: true inclusion starts with listening. I’m here not just to lead—but to learn, and to build Project Sportsmanship in shared ownership with the communities it’s meant to serve.

This isn’t just mine. It’s ours. Let’s build it together.