No Permission Needed: How Women Are Changing the Game at WAWM RCS

A successful sports program relies on more than just the players on the field—it takes coaches, officials, directors, and an active community. At the West Allis-West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services (WAWM RCS) Department, women are driving that impact at every level.

Representation on the Field

For Jubilee Borges, a high school student who coaches and officiates, visibility matters:

"My role as an official and coach represents women in spaces that can be very male-dominated. It allows people to see women in these positions, inspiring others to join and showing athletes that these roles belong to everyone."

Leadership Behind the Scenes

League Director Mikayla Roider coordinates programs with the next generation in mind:

"Being a league director means I can change the dynamics of the sports world for the next generation. It's important for young women to see someone like them in this role so they know support is always within reach."

Vision at the Top

Shelly Strasser, Director of WAWM RCS, views leadership as both an opportunity and an obligation:

"Leadership is a privilege and a responsibility to lead with purpose, integrity, and intention. I want all females to know what is possible, believe in their capabilities, and understand that they don't have to wait for permission to lead."

Turning Commitment into Action

As a Coaching HER^® Champion, WAWM RCS has revamped coach training to emphasize the female athlete experience and foster environments where girls thrive. That commitment is already evident on the field: the department's NFL FLAG Female League brings together 202 athletes across 10 communities every Sunday to compete, build confidence, and connect.

Under the theme "Everyone Plays a Role on the Team," WAWM RCS continues working to ensure girls see women officiating, coaching, and directing. When girls see women leading, they realize there is a place for them in sports—no matter what role they choose to play.