Tina Sloan Green M.Ed., Professor Emerita Temple University; President/Co-Founder, Black Women in Sports Foundation (BWSF). When you think about the real trailblazers for Black women in sports, she is at the top of the list. She went from a college lacrosse walk-on to one of the most decorated coaches in Temple athletics history.
Best and worst decision?
“The best: when I won my third national championship and [former Temple University President] Peter Liacouras asked what I wanted—I chose to be a full professor. I got the title allowing me flexibility in my career. My family was getting big and I wanted to do other things. The freedom of being faculty emeritus allowed me to make a difference with no fear of losing my job. The worst: when younger, I put a time limit on making the U.S. Field hockey team. If I had hung in there longer, I probably would have made it.”
Dream job as a child?
“When I went to Girls’ High School, my coaches were very influential in my life, so my dream job was to be a physical education teacher and coach.”
Barriers to female leadership?
“Lack of opportunities. Sports is male-dominated. I saw very few African American role models in administration. Through my husband, who went to Tuskegee University, I met some talented Black women who did great things at HBCUs. We started the BWSF to expose females to Black role models—to see the possibilities.”
Who inspires you?
“Michelle Obama. I never thought I would see an African American First Lady, especially who comes from an ordinary background. She has made a difference, and didn’t compromise herself. She talked the talk, and walked the walk. She had the credentials: she’s a lawyer, and a Harvard grad. She kept her husband grounded; I could see she doesn’t take any stuff. I liked how she’s raised her children and kept her mother in the mix. I admire her because she has been able to transform the way a lot of people think about African American females.
Challenge for next Generation?
“The millennials expect to have things given them. We had to sacrifice and work hard. They are not prepared to do that. We must give back; we owe it to the next generation, just as we were helped. They must establish themselves inside and outside of the university and/or jobs that they’re in, to gain respect and security.
