Sports Daily Online

Women athletes celebrating at a sports event.

The Anaheim Ducks are set to host their third annual Women in Sports Night at the Honda Center on December 6, 2023. This exciting event aims to empower local students, professionals, and athletes by providing them with opportunities to learn from and network with inspirational women in the sports industry.

Key Takeaways

  • Event Dates: December 6-7, 2023
  • Location: Honda Center and Great Park Ice & FivePoint Arena
  • Featured Speakers: Includes Olympic gold medalists and industry leaders
  • Activities: Panel discussions, networking, on-ice skills clinic, and more

Event Overview

The Women in Sports Night will kick off with a panel discussion and networking event at ARTIC, located across from the Honda Center. The event will begin at 4:30 p.m. with a motivational speech from Sarah Bettencourt, a retired Captain in the United States Marine Corps and a three-time sled hockey world champion. Following her speech, attendees can participate in two panel discussions moderated by Alexis Downie, a host and content producer for Ducks Stream.

The panel will feature a diverse group of speakers from various sports organizations, including:

  • Sarah Bettencourt: Retired Captain, USMC; three-time Sled Hockey World Champion
  • Aisha Chaney: Coordinating Producer II, ESPN SportsCenter LA; Emmy award-winning production executive
  • Caroline Marks: 2024 Olympic gold medalist surfer; 2023 WSL World Champion
  • Jessi Miley-Dyer: WSL Commissioner; 2022 Sports Business Journal Game Changer
  • Christine Monjer: President, Los Angeles Sparks
  • Angela Ruggiero: International Hockey Hall of Fame member; four-time Olympian
  • Natasha Watley: Olympic gold medalist; MLB youth softball ambassador

Game Night Festivities

The Women in Sports Night will culminate with the Ducks’ game against the Minnesota Wild at 7 p.m. During the first intermission, Bettencourt, Marks, and Watley will participate in an autograph session on the main concourse. The evening will also feature a ceremonial puck drop with the panelists and a special appearance by Lynne Roberts, Head Coach of the Los Angeles Sparks.

Women in Sports Weekend

The festivities will continue on December 7 with a women’s on-ice skills clinic at Great Park Ice & FivePoint Arena. This clinic will be led by Angela Ruggiero and will provide participants with coaching from female coaches. Each participant will receive a keepsake Women in Sports Weekend practice jersey.

Additionally, a vendor village featuring women-owned businesses will be open to the public, offering merchandise and local products. The day will also include a screening of the Minnesota vs. Toronto PWHL game and various activities such as friendship bracelet making.

Supporting a Good Cause

The Ducks will host an in-game auction featuring autographed items, with all proceeds benefiting the Girl Scouts of Orange County. This initiative aims to empower girls by building courage, confidence, and character.

In celebration of National Girls & Women in Sports Day and Women’s History Month, the Ducks are committed to honoring trailblazers in women’s sports, inspiring the next generation of athletes and leaders in the community. This weekend promises to be a significant event for all involved, fostering connections and celebrating the achievements of women in sports.

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