What Makes a Community Champion?

Meet Sara DeCosta-Hayes, a Warwick native who captured the gold medal in the 1998 Winter Olympics in the first-ever women’s ice hockey tournament. This week as we celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD), we acknowledge the accomplishments of female athletes, especially Sara, and honor the progress and advocation for equality for women in sports. This goalie legend made history in 1992 when she became the first girl to play in the RI Interscholastic League as a member of the Toll Gate High School boys hockey team.

Paving the way for the next generation of female ice hockey players, Sara co-founded Rhode Island Sting Girls Hockey in 2012, where she not only serves as a coach, but more importantly a mentor. “The Sting was formed to provide an environment where your daughters can grow their love of the game, strengthen friendships and build confidence.”

https://stinghockeyri.com/

Here is a Q&A with DeCosta-Hayes:

BT: Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self?

SD: If I could go back and give my younger self advice it would be to enjoy the moment, embrace confidence, avoid comparing yourself to others, and focus on what makes you better.

BT: Beyond your achievement in sports, what inspires you to give back to your community as well as encourage others to do the same?

SD: As an Olympic athlete, running an all-girls hockey organization is my way of giving back and encouraging others. I’m inspired by providing young females with opportunities to excel, follow their dreams, and empowering them to be confident on and off the ice. It’s about fostering a supportive community and helping others thrive.

BT: You, as an Olympic athlete, continue to be a positive influence. What are some examples of the contributions made or causes that you support?

SD: I contribute to various causes, focusing on promoting sport accessibility for girls and supporting initiatives that empower young athletes.

Follow Brett Taylor and Community Champions on Instagram @ _community_champions