Her Story
About Marli
Marli is the Football Development Manager for the Las Vegas Raiders, where she leads competitive flag football initiatives designed to expand participation and create meaningful opportunities for athletes across Nevada and beyond. In her role, she oversees programs ranging from middle school and high school girls flag football to NFL FLAG competitions, helping foster positive experiences for players while strengthening connections between the sport and the Raiders organization. Her work is centered on growing the game, increasing access, and inspiring the next generation of athletes and fans.
A former student-athlete, Bartlett earned a degree in Sport Management with a minor in Psychology from Wichita State University. Her passion for sports development and community engagement was evident early in her career through coaching, mentoring, volunteer leadership, and youth outreach. She began her NFL journey as an intern with another organization, where she spent six seasons developing her expertise before joining the Raiders full-time. Now in her 11th NFL season, she brings a wealth of experience in program management, event operations, and grassroots football development.
Bartlett attributes her success to perseverance, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Having navigated the challenges and setbacks that often accompany a career in professional sports, she believes resilience has been one of her greatest strengths. She is particularly passionate about increasing visibility and accessibility for girls in football, recognizing the importance of representation and mentorship. As flag football continues to gain momentum through NFL support, Olympic inclusion, and growing collegiate opportunities, Bartlett remains dedicated to helping young athletes pursue their goals and discover new pathways within the sport.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Marli
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, resilience, and a strong work ethic. Throughout my career, I have faced many setbacks and heard plenty of "no's," but I remained focused on my goals and continued pushing forward. Most importantly, I genuinely care about the work I do and the results I achieve, and that commitment has been a driving force behind my growth and success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is that closed mouths don’t get fed. It reminded me to advocate for myself and confidently ask for the opportunities and recognition I’ve earned.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't let the no's deter you. There'll be a lot of no's. Don't let that. Keep going. Be ready to work hard for it, be willing to love what you do but be willing to work really hard for it.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
It's tough to think of a challenge right now because it's such a backed initiative right now by the NFL. Opportunities are that the sport is opening up so wide, not only Olympics but NCAA has cleared it as a division sport. There'll be an NCAA D1 championship in 2028 so there's so many more opportunities for the players.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Visibility and accessibility. I'm in a space where a lot of young girls see me and they or their parents see them in me. So being able to be accessible and able to share what I've learned with them.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.