Christine Brennan began her career in sports journalism in a time when there wasn’t a defined path for women in that field to follow. She had to be a trailblazer, and after listening to her speak, it is evident that, even today she still holds that role.
Brennan began her career in Florida at the Miami Herald in 1981, as the first full-time woman sports writer there. Writing about the University of Miami football team during the height of their dynasty in the 80s allowed her to move forward in her career, catapulting her to a position at the Washington Post where she was able to cover a wide array of sports both in the US and internationally. Brennan emphasizes that many of her career moves and advances happened because she was in the right place at the right time and being there allowed her access to many more opportunities.
As a trailblazer for women in sports media, Brennan has also given back during her career. She is currently on the Board of Trustees at her alma mater, Northwestern University, and that role has allowed her to create opportunities for women interested in sports media, as well as female collegiate athletes, to pursue careers they might otherwise have access to.
Even when she isn’t working, Brennan tries to give back to aspiring sports journalists, speaking at various events and to classes, giving advice on how to be better sports journalists. One noteworthy point Brennan really stressed was to always treat sources with respect and be nice, because you never know when they will be able to help you out down the line. It is clear that Brennan recognizes her role as a trailblazer and even to this day she continues to give back and help others not just follow in her path, but create their own.
It's A Small World, After All. 