Katherine Henry

Head of Pro Health and Wellness LOVB

“Katherine Henry, Head of Pro Health and Wellness at LOVB, leads health initiatives for a pro volleyball league. With a background in athletic training and elite sports, she excels in start-ups.

Katherine has overcome challenges in a male-dominated field by proving her value beyond traditional roles. She highlights the importance of mentorship and creating opportunities for others to promote equality.

Thank you, Katherine, for sharing your journey and inspiring dedication to women’s sports!” – Zara Halabu

Please describe your role and responsibilities at that position?

Building and launching everything health and welllness for a pro volleyball league.

What did you study in college and how did your educational background shape your career in the sports industry?

Athletic trainer by trade. International and elite experience this is my 3rd go at start up pro sports

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to your current position in the sports industry?

ATC Certification. USA National team work. Pro Rugby. League One Volleyball.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in sports business? How have you overcome them?

Great question. My biggest challenges have been in a few different ways. One of them is just being a woman in a male dominated world. It has taken me longer to get where I am. It took me 12 years to get my show with USA. I think the bigger challenge with my career though has been showing that I am more than an athletic trainer. Transitioning outside of a clinical role and showing that I bring more than someone who just tapes ankles and carriers water bottles. But thankfully I have found my nitch in the start up pro sports world.

Balancing a career is demanding. How do you manage a work -life balance? What strategies have worked well for you?

I have to admit I don’t nail this. I work a whole lot. Simple strategies such as turning off my notifications after 6pm and try to not answer my phone on weekends. I make an effort to put my phone away and be present when I’m with my close friends and family during my down time. But overall, I really struggle with this one.

How important is mentorship for women in the sports industry? Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career and can give some details?

It’s vital. It is so much easier to see what is possible if you can see it. If you can see it, you can be it. That applies for athletes to administrators to all avenues of the business of sport. I make a point to try to make time for others and I really try to lead by example. I have been lucky to have some key mentors who have given me time and helped me a long the way.

In a male-dominated industry, do you feel women are given equal opportunities? What steps do you think can be taken to promote gender equality in the sports industry?

I think it depends. Most of my work has been in a women’s sports. It’s getting better but I think there is still a double standard. I think mentoring and turning and giving a hand to the people behind them is the best way. I also think as the next generation comes to the table, they are girl dads and have grown up with things like USWNT in soccer who’s dominated and become household names. Caitlin Clark is a household name and Michelle Wu is donated millions to teams and organizations. Things are changing, slowly but surely.

What aspects of your work in the sports industry do you enjoy the most? What parts do you find the most challenging?

The people is my favorite. I have met some of my most favorite people on the planet. This business has taken me around the world and I am truly grateful. The most challenging is the road blocks, it can feel like you’re fighting the same battles on a hamster wheel. It can be hard to keep going and not get frustrated.

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to build a successful career in the sports industry?

Dream big. Don’t give up. Your dreams are real and even if you don’t get there the way you planned, you can get there.

What is your long-term personal goal that you still want to achieve both business wise and personal?

I want to work my way up into a higher executive role in women’s sports.

Any fun facts you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, # of kids, pet peeves, etc. The more the merrier!!

I have been on safari in South Africa and it was the most incredible experience.