Sports Diversity Leaders Come Together in Phoenix for the Compete Sports Diversity Fall Leadership Summit in Partnership with the Arizona Cardinals

By Dirk Smith, M.Sc, SDL (He/Him)

For two days in September, sports diversity leaders from all over the United States of America came together at the State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals to learn from each other about the changing faces of sports and social impacts of diversity in sports. Representation from many diverse aspects of the community took park in the summit, including local sports teams/athletes, corporate partners, collegiate student-athletes, and small businesses.

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Two training programs were offered as part of the summit.

The Business + Sales Track united professional sports organizations, non-profit organizations, corporations and small business to teach how to better market to the LGBTQ+ community in a thoughtful and authentic way. Participants left with a better understanding of the LGBTQ+ community, how to better support the community and how to earn the community’s business, creating a positive impact for every attendee. Each participant attained the Sports Diversity Leader (SDL) Certification with a Business Emphasis.

The Community Track brought together individuals and organizations for a day of engagement, interactive learning and fun. Attendees took part in roundtable discussions, panel presentations and Q&A sessions. Each participant also earned the Sports Diversity Leader (SDL) Certification with a Community Emphasis.

In addition, two Sports Diversity Leaders were recognized for their hard work and contribution to promoting #SportsDiversity and representing strong leadership within the community. Including,

Small Business Community Hero Award: Phoenix Coqui, Arizona’s #1 Puerto Rican Restaurant
Individual Community Hero Award: Jesus Godinez, Phoenix Gay Flag Football League

: Individual Community Hero Award: Jesus Godinez

: Small Business Community Hero Award: Phoenix Coqui

To hosting such an important event, Compete Sports Diversity has partnered with a number of organizations, such as CAN Community Health. “It is a true honor to partner with Compete Sports Diversity and the Arizona Cardinals to share CAN Community Health’s mission and passion in providing specialized medical care to those affected by HIV, STDs, and Viral Hepatitis.” Rogelio Capote, SVP – Marketing & Community Relations, CAN Community Health.