Victoria’s Secret Joins Forces with APP : In a groundbreaking collaboration, Victoria’s Secret & Co. has been named the presenting sponsor of the inaugural APP Women’s Open, an event poised to elevate the profile of women’s pickleball while championing crucial breast cancer research. This partnership with the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) signifies more than just a sponsorship; it represents a committed effort to empower women and girls both on and off the court.
The APP Women’s Open, taking place from October 4-6 at Pickle & Chill in Columbus, Ohio, aims not only to highlight the skills and talents of female athletes but also to raise vital funds for breast cancer research. Alongside this significant mission, the event is set to foster the growth of pickleball among young female athletes, creating an atmosphere that encourages participation and camaraderie.
Dream Big Summit
Coinciding with this historic event, the “Dream Big Summit,” sponsored by Victoria’s Secret & Co., will bring together over 100 young women—ranging from high school to college-aged—who will engage in meaningful discussions surrounding the concept of self-advocacy. This panel aims to inspire and uplift participants, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy in pursuing personal passions and professional aspirations.
Shannon Dan, EVP of Global Partnerships for the APP, emphasized the broader significance of the tournament.
“The APP Women’s Open presented by The James is about so much more than pickleball. It unites players around breast cancer awareness and aims to fuel growth of the game among women and girls. We are thrilled to collaborate with Victoria’s Secret to raise critical funds for the Stefanie Spielman Fund and hold this Dream Big Summit, which will introduce more young women to the sport and help them navigate through life with confidence.”-(shannon)
Insights from Leading Women
The panel discussion, moderated by APP Broadcast Talent AJ McCord, promises to feature influential women leaders who will share their insights on self-advocacy across various spheres of life—academics, business, sports, and personal health. The lineup includes:
- Megan Fudge: The world number one-ranked APP Tour women’s pro, bringing firsthand experience of success in a competitive landscape.
- Electra Paskett, PhD: A prominent professor and director at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, whose extensive work in cancer prevention highlights the intersection of health and advocacy.
- Natalie McLean: Senior Designer at Victoria’s Secret & Co., who embodies the brand’s commitment to empowering women in both fashion and philanthropy.
- Lisa Hinkelman, PhD: Founder and CEO of Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX), whose groundbreaking research, *The Girls’ Index™, has transformed the dialogue surrounding girls’ success in various domains.
Leslie Nixon, AVP of Community Relations at Victoria’s Secret & Co., expressed the brand’s dedication to this important cause.
“As a brand committed to celebrating and supporting women, we’re incredibly proud to be a part of this unique, first-of-its-kind event. Not only will it educate local young women about self-advocacy and empowerment in so many critical aspects of their lives, but it will also support The Stefanie Spielman Fund to improve healthcare outcomes for women—two causes that are pillars in our philanthropic work as a brand.”-(leslie)
A Commitment to Research
The APP Women’s Open goes beyond sports; it aims to make a tangible impact in the fight against breast cancer. Proceeds from the event will directly support the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research at the OSUCCC – James. Since its inception in 1998, the fund has raised over $26 million, contributing to pioneering research initiatives such as digital pathology and the Spielman Genetic Tumor Bank, which serves as one of the largest repositories of breast cancer tissue and tumors in the nation.
This tournament not only marks the beginning of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month but also serves as a rallying point for the pickleball community to unite for a common cause. The competition will be broadcast nationally on CBS Sports Network, bringing increased attention to the event and its vital missions, while inspiring participants and spectators alike to contribute to the cause.
For more information and to secure tickets, visit theapp.global. Stay updated with the latest from the APP by following their social media channels on Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
News in Brief : Victoria’s Secret Joins Forces with APP
Victoria’s Secret & Co. has partnered with the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) to sponsor the inaugural APP Women’s Open, set for October 4-6 in Columbus, Ohio. This event will feature the “Dream Big Summit,” empowering over 100 young women through discussions on self-advocacy. Proceeds will benefit the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research, which has raised over $26 million since 1998. The tournament aims to enhance awareness for breast cancer and promote the growth of women’s pickleball. For more details, visit theapp.global.
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