Her Story
About Zoe
Zoe McCord is a Sports Administration student at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration. Passionate about sports from an early age, she has played flag football since fourth grade, an experience that helped shape her confidence, leadership skills, and interest in creating opportunities for women in athletics. Alongside her studies, Zoe is gaining hands-on experience through Belmont University Athletics, where she supports gameday operations by assisting visiting teams and officials, providing hospitality, and helping ensure smooth event experiences from arrival through post-game departure.
Zoe is also building professional experience in fan engagement, community outreach, and event support through her work as a Street Team Member with the Tennessee Titans. In this role, she has supported events by setting up activities and promotional materials, engaging with fans, and participating in community events such as Titans pep rallies for local students. She previously served as a media intern for Belmont's baseball and softball seasons, gaining additional exposure to sports operations and professional networking. Her diverse experiences are helping her develop skills in event coordination, game operations, fan engagement, problem solving, and time management while expanding her understanding of careers throughout the sports industry.
A particularly meaningful achievement for Zoe has been bringing the Girls Flag Football Club at Belmont University from an idea into an active organization. Drawing on her personal experience with the sport, she created the club to provide women with an inclusive opportunity to participate, develop their skills, build confidence, and experience the benefits of being part of a team regardless of their previous experience. Zoe also serves as a Playmakers Ambassador at Belmont University, supporting efforts to promote and empower women in sports. Through her education, professional experiences, and commitment to expanding opportunities for women, she is laying the foundation for a career in sports administration and event coordination while working to create pathways for the next generation of women in sports.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Zoe
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my initiative, determination, and genuine passion for sports. Rather than waiting until after graduation to begin building my career, I have been intentional about seeking hands-on experiences, developing my skills, and creating opportunities for myself while completing my education. I also recognize the importance of networking and building meaningful relationships, particularly with other women in the sports industry. For me, success is not only about pursuing my own goals but also about creating opportunities and opening doors for others.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to be intentional about building relationships and never underestimate the value of networking. Throughout my experiences with the Tennessee Titans, Belmont University, Nashville Playmakers, and the broader sports community, I have learned from many professionals and women who have shared their experiences and perspectives with me. Those relationships have encouraged me to continue learning, seek out opportunities, and surround myself with people who inspire my growth. As I progress in my career, I also hope to give back by becoming a mentor and helping younger women navigate their own paths in the sports industry.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the sports industry is to put your head down, stay focused, and go after the opportunities you want. Do not be afraid to speak up, make your voice heard, and be confident in what you bring to the table. If you find yourself as the only woman in the room, remember that you deserve to be there, and use your position to help create more opportunities for other women as well.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities I see in the sports industry is the continued growth of women’s participation and leadership. While women are still underrepresented in some areas of sports administration and operations, I believe we are entering an important period of growth, with more women gaining visibility and opportunities throughout the industry. The expansion of girls’ flag football is especially meaningful to me because it creates opportunities not only for young female athletes but also for women interested in coaching, event management, operations, marketing, administration, and leadership. I want to be part of that growth by helping create opportunities for women both on the field and behind the scenes.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are empowerment, inclusion, connection, leadership, and creating opportunities for others. I am especially passionate about supporting women and helping girls and young women recognize that there are many career paths within sports beyond being an athlete. As I continue developing my own career, I want to contribute to an industry where women feel encouraged and supported in pursuing leadership, operations, administration, and other professional roles. I also value mentorship and hope to eventually give back by guiding younger athletes and helping them discover the many opportunities available throughout the sports industry.
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