Graphic created by Emma Dowsett
There is so much more to a sports team than just the athletes and coaches. The doctors, trainers, equipment staff, reporters, office staff, social media, etc. These people have stories that don’t always get the opportunity to be told. Here are five women who work for professional hockey teams and their stories.
Michelle Sutherby, Social Media Content Designer- Detroit Red Wings
@m.sutherby on Instagram
Can you describe what your job is and what it entails?
As the Social Media Content Designer for the Red Wings, I ideate, design, and create roughly 90-95% of all the graphics you see on Detroit Red Wings’ social media accounts. This includes all game day assets and graphics (gameday, lineups, rosters, period updates, etc.), as well as any milestone graphics/one-offs and last minute informational graphics such as trades, transactions, hirings, etc. I also help contribute to overall marketing ideas and campaigns, as well as help design graphics for the team's email, website, and app.
How did you get involved in your line of work?
I studied graphic design in college, and I played sports growing up. So, I knew very quickly that I wanted to work as a designer in sports and combine my two passions. After college, I applied to every internship I could possibly find, and I ended up getting hired as the graphic design intern for the Orlando Magic from 2017-2018, which very much helped me jump start my career within sports.
What is your favourite part of your job?
There are so many things that I love about what I get to do for my job, but I think my favorite part is being able to be a small part of the team's history. Getting to design graphics that highlight our players and their accomplishments throughout their careers is something I don't take for granted. It's something that is really rewarding, and I am grateful I can be a part of a team that has such a rich history.
Do you have a favourite moment/memory from your job?
I think my favorite memory was getting to work my first game in person at Little Caesars Arena. I originally worked in the creative department within Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, and I never had any game day responsibilities until I started in my new role with the social media team. When I started as the Social Media Content Designer, it was the week of the pandemic back in March of 2020. So, I worked basically my whole first year in this role from home. When we were finally able to come back to the arena, I was very excited to be able to witness and work a game in person, and I remember thinking and feeling like, "I can't believe this is my job." It was one of those moments where I felt like all my hard work and patience was finally paying off.
Did you have a role model who worked in sports when you were growing up? If so, who?
To be honest, not at first. Before I worked in sports, I didn't realize that I could even be a designer for a sports team. Once I realized that was a thing and I started working for the Orlando Magic, I had some mentors and supervisors there that I very much looked up to and respected so much. Justin Garand was my supervisor at the Magic, and he really helped mold me into the designer I wanted to be. I learned so much from him, and I am very grateful that he was my mentor when I was first starting out.
What does being a woman working in sports mean to you?
It means I'm breaking barriers for future generations. Growing up, I always loved sports, playing sports, rooting for my favorite teams, but you hardly saw women working in big roles. I never thought as a young girl that I would one day say I work in my dream role for an Original Six NHL team. So, being able to be a role model for young girls makes me super proud because I'm able to show others that they can do this too.
Do you have a piece of advice you would give someone wanting to work in the NHL?
My biggest advice would be to stay organized and open-minded. Working in the NHL or in sports in general is a very fast paced environment, and things can change in an instant. New things and challenges are always popping up, especially with new technology and how the world around us is always evolving. Never stop learning so you can grow within your craft, but also learn new skills along the way that will not only help you but the people around you as well.
Paige Bolder, Corporate Partnerships Coordinator- Calgary Flames
@paigebolder on Instagram
Can you describe what your job is and what it entails?
In the Corporate Partnerships department at CSEC, I manage a portfolio of partners across all five sports properties—Flames, Wranglers, Hitmen, Stampeders, and Roughnecks. My role is to ensure that all sponsorship assets are delivered, which can range from social-sponsored content to broadcast assets like Digitally Enhanced Dasher Boards and commercials, as well as in-arena assets like rink boards and LED scoreboards. A unique aspect of my position is that I get to collaborate with nearly every department in the company, from digital and marketing to game presentation and public relations. I enjoy being creative, working with partners and internal teams to design campaigns tailored to each partner's brand and objectives.
How did you get involved in your line of work?
I first started in the sponsorships/partnerships world with an internship at Molson Coors Beverage Company in Sponsorship and Events after my first year of school. Because of COVID, I didn't get to return until after I graduated. In the summer of 2022, I finished my second internship with MCBC, which helped me form connections at CSEC. Prior to my internship, I had started working as a Game Night Assistant for the CSEC Premium Department in the fall of 2021, which helped me get my foot in the door with the company.
What is your favourite part of your job?
I love tapping into the creative side of my brain and having the chance to collaborate with so many different departments and partners. Working game nights is another highlight—I get to be part of the energy with the fans and help create memorable experiences for them.
Do you have a favourite moment/memory from your job?
It’s hard to choose because I’ve had so many incredible experiences over the past two years in my role. The 2021-2022 Flames playoffs, while I was in my part-time position, definitely stands out—there’s nothing like being part of that energy, especially in a city like Calgary. Then, in 2023-2024, the team retired Miikka Kiprusoff’s jersey, which was an amazing experience. Getting to see some of the behind-the-scenes moments was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Did you have a role model who worked in sports when you were growing up? If so, who?
I didn’t have anyone working in sports as a role model, but I have to say my dad played a huge role in fostering my love for it. Growing up, some of my earliest memories are watching Flames games with my dad, which contributed to my passion for the NHL. Without him, I probably wouldn't have ended up where I am now.
What does being a woman working in sports mean to you?
As a lifelong sports fan, I’ve always had a deep passion for the game, even though growing up the faces on TV and the players on the field were almost always men. Today, I’m thrilled to see a cultural shift, with more women working across the sports industry and the growing popularity of women’s sports. Being a woman in this field means being part of that change, helping pave the way for more diversity and representation. If I can inspire even one more person to follow their passion and work in sports, then I feel like I've succeeded in making a difference.
Do you have a piece of advice you would give someone wanting to work in the NHL?
My biggest advice for anyone looking to break into sports is to grow your professional network and gain as much relevant experience as possible. The sports industry is evolving rapidly, and building connections with people in your desired field is essential to stay on top of the latest trends and opportunities. Relevant experience is just as critical because it not only helps you develop key skills but also gives you a deeper understanding of the industry's unique demands and culture. Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and learn from those already in the industry—it can open doors and provide invaluable insight as you start your career.
Gabrielle Healy, Social Media Content Producer- Buffalo Sabres
@ghealy11 on Instagram
Can you describe what your job is and what it entails?
I'm a member of the Sabres social media team as one of our three "admins". My role encompasses more of the creative content and short form video production and less of the social media management side. I also manage the team TikTok account, team dog account, and mascot account. My role involves traveling with the team so you can think of my job as: anywhere the team is, I'm there with a camera.
How did you get involved in your line of work?
During my Sophomore year of college at University of Michigan, I joined a student broadcast network where I began doing radio color commentary for our hockey team. I grew up ice skating and also skated for Michigan's Synchronized Skating team, so I enjoyed being around the rink. One thing led to another and I ended up being Michigan Hockey's video intern during my senior year of college. The team really blew up on social media that season, having four of the NHL draft's top five picks. Upon graduation, I worked as an SID and video producer for Michigan Athletics for a year, before getting my current job with the Sabres.
What is your favourite part of your job?
I love being able to tell stories and come up with spontaneous and creative ideas based on what's going on with the team, current trends, and individual players. I work with a fantastic group of people who let me run with my creative ideas no matter how crazy they may seem. I also really enjoy traveling and getting to see lots of new cities while doing a job I love.
Do you have a favourite moment/memory from your job?
I have a few. This season, I was given the opportunity to produce an entire "Back To School" themed photoshoot during our media day. It was awesome to put the entire shoot together from start to finish, including shooting and editing. I learned a lot from our team photographer, Ben, in the process, and was able to source all of the vintage outfits our players wore. I was proud of myself looking back at the process. The 2024 All-Star game and Global Series games in Munich and Prague are also up there for me.
Did you have a role model who worked in sports when you were growing up? If so, who?
Growing up as an ice skater, I looked up to a lot of professional figure skaters and a few coaches who had positive impacts on my skating career. However, I fell into the sports media world on my own. My boss Kristy, while interning with Michigan Hockey, had a massive impact on my career as a mentor, though.
What does being a woman working in sports mean to you?
Being a woman in sports means being confident, creative, and strong, to me. Like many other women in this field, I've had my fair share of roadblocks and people who have diminished my abilities along the way as a young woman. I aim to continuously let my talent do the talking and enjoy proving people wrong. I hope to be a role model for younger girls also hoping to get into sports. I'm proud of myself for getting so far in my career already at such a young age.
Do you have a piece of advice you would give someone wanting to work in the NHL?
View everyone you meet as a connection! It's been so important in my career to value my friendships and professional relationships with the people I meet working in this field. Those connections often come back to help you out in the future, so I encourage you to put your best foot forward whenever meeting someone new. So much can be gained from these relationships. I've met some of my best friends, like Lauren Rodolitz and Maggie Pilibosian, through sports. I've also made great connections with people working across the league who serve as great people to go to for advice or to discuss league happenings.
Annie Nadin, Digital Associate Producer- Calgary Sport and Entertainment Corporation
@annie.nadin on Instagram @annie_nadn on Tik Tok
Can you describe what your job is and what it entails?
I work with Business Operations, Public Relations, and Marketing to keep the Wranglers’ websites and social channels fresh, relevant, and engaging. I'm the girl behind the posts, from live game updates, to photoshoots, and yes even TikTok brain rot. I produce and edit content and manage daily posts across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter/X. Plus, I keep the community in the loop with all things Wranglers, from news to events. It's a fast-paced role, and I love the variety and creative freedom it offers!
How did you get involved in your line of work?
I am Calgary born and raised. I grew up cheering for all Calgary teams and I have always been involved in sports, from playing, to being a fan! In University, when I was exploring what I wanted to do post-grad, I reached out to people for coffee-chats. Asking them about their career journeys, day-to-day work in their roles, and advice that they'd have for a student like myself. CSEC really resonated with me and I had made strong connections there, so when the job became available, I knew it was the right fit for me.
What is your favourite part of your job?
No day is the same as the last. I am extremely lucky in my role to have so much creative freedom. I feel like I am a part of a team that is all working together towards a common goal and we all get to celebrate our accomplishments together.
Do you have a favourite moment/memory from your job?
Earlier in the season, I had an idea to do a photoshoot on a farm and dress the team up as cowboys, a staple to the Calgary culture. I was worried that the guys maybe wouldn't be into it, but we all had a blast and got some of our best content from it! The content has been utilized across many departments and I got to see my big idea become reality, and it was celebrated. It has encouraged me to continue thinking outside of the box and having fun with what I create.
Did you have a role model who worked in sports when you were growing up? If so, who?
Stephanie Kinsella, from Hockey Canada, has been a true mentor to me. I met her as my sports career journey was just beginning. She is someone who exemplifies all that I want to be. She is extremely hard working, she is determined, and when she wants something, you have all the confidence in her that she is going to get it. She truly inspires me.
What does being a woman working in sports mean to you?
Being a woman in a male dominated industry is daunting, but never back down from the challenge, use it as your fuel. Sometimes you have to bring your own chair to the table, or create the table and invite people to take a seat. I am proud to be part of the collective momentum propelling women to the forefront of the sports industry, both as athletes and in leadership roles.
Do you have a piece of advice you would give someone wanting to work in the NHL?
Surround yourself with people who in a room full of opportunities, will bring up your name. Learn as much as you can from women who are involved!
Haley Taylor Simon, Reporter- Philadelphia Flyers and St. Louis Blues
@haleytsimon on Instagram
Can you describe what your job is and what it entails?
I write for the Metro Philadelphia & Philly Sports Network for the Flyers, I interview players and cover the team. For the Blues, I host Locked on Blues. I interview the players when they come to my city, and I do 30 minute episodes five days a week covering the Blues.
How did you get involved in your line of work?
I had a hockey podcast when I was in college, and would send it out as demos, and later found myself also being able to use my journalism skills.
What is your favourite part of your job?
Being involved with hockey. Hockey is my biggest "love" in life. To be able to cover two teams and get to interview players is a dream come true.
Do you have a favourite moment/memory from your job?
The 2024 NHL Draft. It was one of the goals I had for my career. I was able to cover both the Blues and Flyers prospects, which caused for a BUSY day, but it was an unforgettable experience.
Did you have a role model who worked in sports when you were growing up? If so, who?
Jackie Redmond! She actually did a virtual call with me in college where we talked about accomplishing dreams and I never forgot her words of encouragement.
What does being a woman working in sports mean to you?
Everything. It can be tough, but I now know my work speaks for itself, therefore I feel confident since I know I provide great hockey insight that I hope inspires other girls and women.
Do you have a piece of advice you would give someone wanting to work in the NHL?
Don't give up!!! Hockey might be a niche sport, but it's so worth all the work to get involved. Chase after the dream and not the money, seriously. Even if you intern, take low paying jobs, it gets you in the door. Also be confident... I know you know what you're doing.
Photos sent in by participants
Edited by Giana Robertaccio
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