NIL

Impact Spotlight

Stef Zeh is the founder of Section Z, a nonprofit that takes young female athletes from underserved communities to professional sports games, including Angel City matches. Through attendance at games, plus panels and workshops with successful women who grew up playing sports, Section Z aims to leverage the excitement of live sports to set participants […]

Published

1 month ago

April 18, 2025

Your Sports Nation

Transportation to Angel City games is made possible through the Rolling with Chevy program, which provides transportation to the stadium for community groups, youth sports teams, and families. Rolling with Chevy is Chevy’s contribution to the Angel City 10% Sponsorship Model, where 10% of all sponsorship dollars are reallocated back into the community.

AngelCity.com: What is Section Z all about?

Stef Zeh: Section Z is a nonprofit organization where we take young female athletes from underserved communities to professional sports games. The idea is we leverage the excitement of live sports to set these girls up for success. We’re about taking them to the game, showing them that representation, and then we do workshops and panels where we focus on showing these girls that the transferable skills they get being an athlete set them up for life success.

The percentage of young women who will be professional athletes or collegiate athletes, it’s very small, right? But there’s so much data that shows that sports provide transferable skills that set them up for success—yet there are so many barriers. We know that girls tend to drop out of sports around age 13-14. So it’s about removing those barriers and keeping these girls excited.

ACFC: Talk a little more about the workshops and panels you do.

SZ: We’ll take girls from an underserved community to a game, and they have a pre-game panel experience. I’ll moderate a panel with female execs and former athletes, asking how their skills as athletes translate, they’ll share challenges they’ve faced along their career journey, and offer advice to these young female athletes. We also know from research, you can only aspire to be what you see, and these girls might not have met a mechanical engineer or seen what marketing a sports team looks like.

When you think about it, there are so many jobs that exist at a sports stadium, whether it’s the person who welded the goalposts, the person who does the contracts for the athletes, the player, the coach, the PR staff, the food vendors. So, if we can take this thing that they really love and that they feel a part of, and use that to show what’s really possible, that’s the big idea. Our motto is, it’s more than a ticket. So they get exposure to the game, but it’s more than that.

ACFC: How do sports contribute to girls’ lifelong success, and how does Section Z factor into that?

SZ: I’m sure you’ve seen that stat about how 94% of women in the C-suite were athletes. That stat is only so interesting – it’s really just a correlation. Because they only asked women in the C-Suite. This is such a small percentage of the population. It’s less than 4%! What about everyone else? If we can all agree that the things you learn from sports set you up for success, how do we get everyone else moving up?

That’s our whole thing, and I’ve experienced the impact sports have firsthand. I’m an entrepreneur who grew up feeling like sports was the only place where I really felt like I belonged, and because I’m an athlete I can be dropped in any situation and have confidence. I’ve pivoted from being at a high-end clothing line, to hosting a morning radio show that won awards, and I feel that’s all because I was an athlete.

That whole C-suite thing, we kind of flip it on its head, and our pillars for the non-profit are what we call the Sweet C’s, which are competence, confidence, and collaboration, because that’s really what we’re helping them develop.

ACFC: What inspired you to start Section Z?

SZ: On March 6, 2020, like a week before the world shut down, I was in a bad accident. I was on Catalina Island, and they use golf carts for cars over there. I’d only been there for an hour and a half and I got tossed out of a golf cart and it flipped and landed on my head. I was airlifted out. I had a brain injury and a face laceration. So my experience of COVID was, I was in bed with a brain injury, just wanting my brain to work.

Through that experience, I started thinking about how I’ve done all these really cool things, I’ve traveled the world, but if I wouldn’t had been so lucky. What have I done that actually matters? What have I built that’s bigger than me, that’s going to make the world a better place?

Going to sports games was always one of my favorite things to do. I’m a season ticket holder for Angel City—front-row season tickets. I remember being so pumped to go to the first game, and about five minutes in, I had this wave of sadness come over me. I was like, man, what would my life have been like if this existed when I was a kid?

After that, I realized, I don’t know if I would have been able to go when I was growing up—so that’s the business problem that I want to solve. From there I wound up meeting [Angel City Co-Founder] Julie Uhrman, who was instrumental in building our partnership with Angel City.

The first time I heard Julie talk, she said the best way to support the team is to buy tickets. So, I called Angel City and I said, “I want the biggest group slot you guys have left.” That was for the last game in 2022. I bought 25 tickets and decided to find a school, and a bus, and that was how the first Section Z started. We’ve been at every Angel City home game since.

ACFC: What’s next for Section Z?

SZ: More teams, more leagues, deeper partnerships, with the goal of having a Section Z at every stadium. We are also working on some other really new and exciting things that we’re not ready to announce, but we believe it will leverage the power of sports in a way that hasn’t been done.

Related Topics:athlete bad big building business buy cars coach food golf group live marketing new professional sports season show skills sports sweet team working

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Bret Bielema says unnamed college football programs are spending ‘insanity’ NIL money to win championships

By Zain Bando via @sportingnews, 23h ago With a huge leap this past season that saw Illinois clinch its first 10-win year since 2001, coach Bret Bielema has begun recognizing how eye-opening the NIL space has become. In an exclusive interview with Big Ten Radio on SiriusXM, Bielema peeled back the curtain on the hurdles […]

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With a huge leap this past season that saw Illinois clinch its first 10-win year since 2001, coach Bret Bielema has begun recognizing how eye-opening the NIL space has become. In an exclusive interview with Big Ten Radio on SiriusXM, Bielema peeled back the curtain on the hurdles Illinois has had to deal with regarding player retention, much less utilizing the transfer portal to remain productive this offseason. Both goals paid off considerably. Bielema kept his quarterback, Luke Altmyer, and was able to find replacements for wide receiver Pat Bryant, alongside rebuilding a defense in his image by returning to…

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Mizzou Softball's Taylor Pannell Enters Transfer Portal

As the only SEC team not in the NCAA Tournament, Mizzou softball wasn’t exactly having a joyous week. Then, the week got a little worse. Per D1 Softball’s Justin McLeod on X, Taylor Pannell has entered the transfer portal. The Lee’s Summit, MO native will have one year of eligibility remaining. In her three seasons […]

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1 hour ago

May 18, 2025

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Mizzou Softball's Taylor Pannell Enters Transfer Portal

As the only SEC team not in the NCAA Tournament, Mizzou softball wasn’t exactly having a joyous week.

Then, the week got a little worse. Per D1 Softball’s Justin McLeod on X, Taylor Pannell has entered the transfer portal. The Lee’s Summit, MO native will have one year of eligibility remaining.

In her three seasons with the Tigers, she established herself as one of the top closers in the nation. Following a promising freshman campaign in which she recorded six saves, Pannell took her game to another level in 2024. By season’s end, she’d tied the NCAA record for saves in a single season with 15. That included a clutch performance in Super Regional, where she sealed a 3-1 win over Duke to force a decisive Game 3, although Mizzou would fall 4-3.

This past season, Pannell more than doubled the amount of innings she pitched. However, she took a statistical step back: her ERA jumped from 1.21 in 2024 to 3.33 this season. Like Cierra Harrison and Marissa McCann, Pannell also struggled keeping the ball in the yard, allowing nine home runs after giving up just one in 2024. While allowing home runs becomes more likely the more a pitcher plays, Pannell’s home runs per batters faced increased (.027 compared to .007).

Even so, Pannell was a reliable arm for MU in her first three collegiate seasons, one that the Tigers will sorely miss. She shined at the end of the regular season, clinching a pair of wins against Georgia with dominant late-game performances. Not only did she retire the Bulldogs in order both times, she struck out four of the six batters she faced.

Elsewhere on the pitching staff, Harrison has one year of eligibility left, while McCann has two. Natalie Touchet will also be a junior; she’s the only player besides Pannell who recorded a save last season (she had two). With Jayci Kruse exhausting her eligibility, Courtney Donahue is the only other player from last season’s team who could return for the 2026 season. The transfer from Des Moines Area Community College pitched sparingly in the spring, making just six appearances.

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Softball Postseason Run Ends in Regional Semifinal

DURHAM, N.C. – The Coastal Carolina softball team split a doubleheader at the NCAA Durham Regional, defeating Howard 9-1 before its season came to an end with an 16-8 loss to No. 14 national seed Duke. Game 1: Howard 1, Coastal 9 (5 innings) Howard struck first in the […]

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1 hour ago

May 18, 2025

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DURHAM, N.C. – The Coastal Carolina softball team split a doubleheader at the NCAA Durham Regional, defeating Howard 9-1 before its season came to an end with an 16-8 loss to No. 14 national seed Duke.

Game 1: Howard 1, Coastal 9 (5 innings)

Howard struck first in the top of the first inning when Alyssa Vasquez hit a two-out solo home run over the left-field wall to take a 1-0 lead.

Coastal answered in the bottom of the second inning. Keirstin Roose cracked a double into left field and advanced to third on a throwing error. Maddy Jennings then drove her home on a sacrifice fly to tie the game at 1-1.

In the bottom of the third Delaney Keith laced a single through the right side, followed by a two-run home run from Georgia Hood to give the Chanticleers a 3-1 lead.

CCU added another run in the bottom of the fourth when Livi Payne lined a sacrifice fly into center field, driving in pinch runner Emma Skovran to make it 4-1.

The Chanticleers sealed the win in the bottom of the fifth when Roose ripped an RBI single through the left side to extend the lead to 5-1. With the bases loaded, freshman McKennah Metzger crushed a walk-off grand slam to send Coastal into the regional semifinals with a 9-1 victory.

Nicolette Picone improved to 29-9 in the circle, allowing one run on five hits over 5.0 innings.

Game 2: Duke 16, Coastal 8 (8 innings)

Duke opened the scoring in the top of the first inning with a solo home run to center field by Aminah Vega to take a 1-0 lead.

Metzger tied the game in the bottom of the second with her second home run of the day, this time over the right-center field wall to make it 1-1.

The Blue Devils regained the lead in the top of the third, scoring on a sacrifice fly to left field and a throwing error to go ahead 3-1.

The Chanticleers responded in the bottom of the third with an offensive surge. After Pippin reached on a walk, Keith smashed a two-run home run over the right-field wall to tie it 3-3. Hood then followed with a solo shot to give Coastal a 4-3 advantage.

The hits kept coming in the bottom of the third when Roose doubled down the left-field line and Jenning launched Coastal’s third home run of the inning, extending the lead to 6-3.

Duke rallied in the top of the fourth with a five-run frame, scoring on a pair of singles and a three-run double by Thessa Malauʻulu to retake the lead at 8-6.

The Chants narrowed the gap in the bottom of the fifth inning when Keith reached on walk and advanced to third on a passed ball and a groundout. The third baseman was then able to cross home plate on a Duke fielding error to make the score 8-7.

Coastal looked to cut into the deficit in the bottom of the sixth inning after singles from Metzger and Payne put runners on base, but the Blue Devils held strong to record the final out and preserve their 8-7 lead.

The Chanticleers showed their grit in the bottom of the seventh when Keith singled and Hood reached on an intentional walk. Metzger followed with a single to second base, and pinch runner Baxter came home on an errant throw to tie the game once again at 8-8.

Duke put the game away in the top of the eighth, bringing home eight runs on a double, two fielder’s choices, a single, a walk, and a passed ball to secure the 16-8 victory.

Picone took the loss in the circle, falling to 29-11 on the season after allowing nine runs on six hits.

For complete coverage of CCU softball, follow the Chanticleers on social media at @CoastalSoftball (X), @GoCCUSports (Instagram) and facebook.com/CCUChanticleers (Facebook), or visit the official home of Coastal Carolina Athletics at GoCCUSports.com.

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Quinn Ewers scores $3M endorsement deal with Panini after tough NFL Draft decision …

In a striking turn of events that marries ambition with opportunity, Quinn Ewers, the fresh-faced quarterback for the Miami Dolphins, has inked an exclusive autograph trading card agreement with Panini, a leader in the sports memorabilia industry. This landmark deal, valued at an impressive $3 million, not only heralds Ewers’ entry into the professional realm […]

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2 hours ago

May 18, 2025

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Quinn Ewers scores $3M endorsement deal with Panini after tough NFL Draft decision ...

A Leap of Faith

Ewers’ journey to the NFL is a tale of bold decisions and unwavering self-belief. Opting to forgo his senior season and dive headfirst into the NFL Draft, Ewers embraced the uncertainty that comes with such a pivotal life choice. His decision, while fraught with risk—given the potential financial and developmental benefits of another collegiate season—speaks volumes about his confidence in his abilities and his eagerness to test his mettle on the grandest stage of American football.

The Rookie’s Resolve

Despite being a seventh-round pick, a position that often comes with its own set of challenges and lower financial expectations, Ewers’ deal with Panini is a testament to his marketability and potential. “I didn’t expect to fall as low as I did, but it is what it is at the end of the day, and I have the same opportunity as everybody else does, and I’m beyond thankful for that,” Ewers reflected. His words resonate with a determination to not only prove his doubters wrong but to also carve out a successful career in the NFL, underscored by his recent $4.3 million contract with the Dolphins.

A Premier Event

Ewers’ announcement came during the 31st annual Rookie Premiere, an event that bridges the gap between NFL newcomers and top brand partners, showcasing the rookies not just as athletes but as brand ambassadors. Among the 42 players invited to this exclusive gathering in Los Angeles, Ewers stood out—not just for his talent, but for his story of perseverance and potential. The event, which also featured a jersey reveal, provided Ewers and his peers with a tangible symbol of their transition from collegiate athletes to professional stars, culminating in a group photo that captured the essence of their shared journey.

Trading Card Excitement

The excitement surrounding Ewers’ first NFL trading cards is palpable. “I can’t wait to see my first NFL trading cards!” Ewers exclaimed, echoing the sentiments of countless fans who eagerly anticipate the release of Panini’s latest collection. This enthusiasm is not just about the physical cards but what they represent: a moment frozen in time, celebrating the arrival of a new generation of talent ready to leave their mark on the league.

Looking Ahead

As Quinn Ewers embarks on this new chapter of his career, his partnership with Panini is more than just a lucrative endorsement deal; it’s a symbol of his journey, from a promising collegiate athlete to an NFL rookie with the world at his feet. This story is not just about sports memorabilia; it’s about ambition, the allure of the new, and the dreams of young athletes everywhere. As Ewers prepares to take the field, his story serves as a beacon for others, reminding us that with talent, determination, and the right opportunities, the possibilities are endless.

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Sherrone Moore faces two-game suspension and looming NIL disaster as Michigan’s recruiting hopes hang by a thread

Published

2 hours ago

May 18, 2025

Your Sports Nation

In the high-stakes world of college football, the University of Michigan and its co-offensive coordinator, Sherrone Moore, find themselves navigating through turbulent waters. The aftermath of a sign-stealing scandal, with Connor Stallions at its epicenter, has led to a significant setback for Moore: a two-game suspension that casts a long shadow over the upcoming season. This development is not just a personal blow to Moore but also a critical juncture for Michigan’s football program, especially in the fiercely competitive arena of recruiting.

The Ripple Effect of a Scandal

The controversy surrounding the sign-stealing incident has reverberated far beyond the immediate punitive measures. Jim Harbaugh, Michigan’s head coach, has managed to steer through the storm relatively unscathed, securing victories that have kept the program’s hopes alive. However, the implications of Moore’s suspension extend beyond the sidelines and into the living rooms of potential recruits. The timing couldn’t be more precarious as Michigan finds itself in a delicate balancing act, trying to maintain its allure to top-tier talent in the face of adversity.

Recruiting Battles and NIL Dynamics

The landscape of college football recruiting has been irrevocably changed by the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, leveling the playing field in ways previously unimaginable. In this new era, the battle for five-star recruits has intensified, with programs not only showcasing their athletic prowess but also their ability to offer lucrative NIL deals. The suspension of a key figure like Moore could tilt the scales, giving an edge to SEC powerhouses renowned for their aggressive recruiting strategies and robust NIL opportunities. This situation places Michigan at a crossroads, challenging the program to navigate the complexities of modern recruiting while contending with the fallout from the scandal.

The Path Forward

As Michigan looks to the future, the questions loom large. How will the program adapt to the evolving landscape of college football, where the lines between athletic success and financial incentives are increasingly blurred? Can Michigan leverage its storied history and academic prestige to overcome the hurdles presented by the suspension and the broader implications of the NIL era?

A Reflection on Resilience and Redemption

The saga of Sherrone Moore and the Michigan football program is more than a story of scandal and suspension. It is a testament to the resilience required to navigate the highs and lows of college athletics. As the Wolverines prepare to face the challenges ahead, they do so with the knowledge that adversity often paves the way for growth and redemption. The true measure of their success will not be found solely in wins and losses but in their ability to rise above the fray and continue to inspire the next generation of athletes. In the end, the legacy of Michigan football and its ability to weather the storm will be a powerful narrative of perseverance in the face of adversity.

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Texas Tech Red Raiders – Official Athletics Website

LUBBOCK, Texas – The No. 12-seeded Red Raiders (47-12) advanced to the Lubbock Regional Final after taking down Mississippi State (38-18) 10-1 in six innings on Saturday afternoon at Rocky Johnson Field. NiJaree Canady improved to 27-5 in the circle and hit her second home run in as many games while Lauren Allred led the way […]

Published

2 hours ago

May 18, 2025

Your Sports Nation

LUBBOCK, Texas – The No. 12-seeded Red Raiders (47-12) advanced to the Lubbock Regional Final after taking down Mississippi State (38-18) 10-1 in six innings on Saturday afternoon at Rocky Johnson Field. NiJaree Canady improved to 27-5 in the circle and hit her second home run in as many games while Lauren Allred led the way with five RBI including the game-ending three-run homer.

Alana Johnson built off her four RBI performance last night with a 3-for-3 day at the plate and an RBI. Mihyia Davis recorded a hit and scored three runs from the lead off position as she set the tone for the Red Raider’s offense.

Alexa Langeliers, Bailey Lindemuth and Hailey Toney all picked up two hits and were rock steady in the infield after a couple of tough plays in the first inning. Langeliers turned a double play in the third inning to get Texas Tech out of a jam.

Demi Elder added to the run total with a solo home run into the left field bleachers in the second inning.

How it happened:
Canady struck out the first batter she faced to open the game but a pair of singles and walk loaded the bases with two outs. The Big 12 Pitcher of the Year had no trouble though, as she got the next batter to pop out with the very next pitch.

The offense delivered in the first inning as Davis led off the game with a single and was pushed over to second on a ground out by Langeliers that worked like a sacrifice. With two outs, Johnson ripped a ball into left field to score Davis and bring in the first run of the day. Lindemuth added to the total with an RBI single to right field to give Tech a 2-0 lead.

The Bulldogs went down in order in the next inning as Elder pushed Tech’s lead to 3-0 with a solo homer.

Mississippi State had something brewing in the third, but Langeliers stepped up to make a 4-3 double play to eliminate the threat and hang a zero on the scoreboard.

Tech was held scoreless in the third inning – the only time they would not score in the game. Allred drove in two runs with a single in the fourth inning before Mississippi State got its lone run of the game, ending Tech’s streak of 33 straight scoreless innings.

Canady got the run back and then some as she planted a ball into the bleachers, actually landing it in the trash can, for a two-run homer. The junior now has 10 home runs on the season.

Allred ended the game an inning early after Davis walked and Langeliers singled. The sophomore took the second pitch she saw on a line over the left field wall to end the game and give Tech its 47^th win of the season.

Ticketing
Texas Tech Athletics will be opening up a limited amount of infield tickets online for tomorrow.

UP NEXT: Tech will play at 2 p.m. tomorrow against the winner of today’s games.

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