Fangirl Sports Network Founder, Tracy Sandler
How did your passion for sports begin and how did you get to where you are today?
I have loved watching sports ever since I was a little girl, whether with my parents, my brothers and family friends. By the time I was 11, I could rattle off stats, analysis and everything in between. To celebrate my Sweet 16, my dad took me to a NFC Championship game. This is exactly what I wanted; although I love a good party, I love football more. I took that same love of sports and created Fangirl Sports Network because I wanted to create content that speaks directly to female fans, while also creating a network for women to consume sports in whatever way is most authentic to them.
How did Fangirl Sports Network get started, and what does it look like now?
Fangirl Sports Network first began as a network of female 49ers fans, 49ers Fangirl in 2015, and we grew from there. Today, Fangirl Sports Network provides everything from relatable memes, Community Monday (where we highlight athletes who give back to their communities), Five Fun Facts on various athletes, and The Friday Five, brought to you by FEVO, which breaks down the five biggest headlines in sports that week.
I also host our podcast Get My Job, where each week I sit down with a woman who has made a significant impact in the sports industry and interview her about her journey. I am also very excited because we recently launched our third merchandise collection... and I have to say, it is my favorite one yet!
What is your most memorable experience with the 49ers?
My most memorable experience was definitely covering Super Bowl LIV. Although it sounds very cliché, I had to pinch myself to truly realize just how far 49ers Fangirl, and then FGSN, had come. For me, transitioning from a fan to a credentialed beat reporter to covering the Super Bowl was - and I don’t say this lightly - a dream come true.
What types of barriers or challenges do you face working in a male-dominated sport?
I have been very lucky to cover a very inclusive team with a very inclusive group of media members. Even from day one, the team has been welcoming and supportive. That being said, women often face many barriers and stereotypes in the workplace, especially the sports workplace, that men do not. I let my work, my knowledge, and my work ethic speak for itself, all while continuing to support and uplift my female colleagues throughout the industry.
What advice can you share with young women who want to pursue a career in the sports industry?
Know what it is that you want to do and be open to opportunities. There is no such thing as being over-prepared. Treat everyone with respect, and let your work speak for itself. □
Article Credits
Tracy Sandler Instagram: @tracysandler
Tracy Sandler Twitter: @49ersfangirl
Fangirl Sports Network Instagram: @fangirlsportsnetwork
Fangirl Sports Network Twitter: @fangirlsports
Fangirl Sports Network Facebook: @fangirlsportsnetwork
Fangirl Sports Network Website: www.fgsn.com
