Anna Dannhausen

Vice President, Hot Shots Sports

“As Vice President of Hot Shots Sports, Anna Dannhausen plays a hands-on role in the day-to-day operations of the company, overseeing program planning, staff scheduling, marketing, and human resources. Though she holds a degree in Architecture, her college experience as a basketball player, assistant coach, and athletic department staff member fueled her passion for a career in sports. Since joining Hot Shots Sports in 2012, her dedication and leadership have propelled her to her current executive role.

Anna acknowledges the challenges of being one of few women in leadership and coaching roles, especially in male-dominated meetings about girls’ sports. She is a strong advocate for increasing female representation in coaching to inspire the next generation. She also emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, especially after becoming a mother, and values the flexibility and trust she’s built within her company. Her advice to young women in sports: work hard, love what you do, and find a workplace that rewards dedication.

Thank you, Anna, for sharing your experiences and perspective. Your leadership and commitment to advancing opportunities for women in sports are truly inspiring.” – Zara Halabu

Please describe your role and responsibilities at that position?

We are a small business, so I do a bit of everything. My main focus is the day to day operations of the company. This includes planning programs, scheduling staff, and extends to HR/hiring and marketing.

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

I have a degree in Architecture, but while in college I was involved as a player and student assistant coach for the Women’s Basketball program. I also was hired to work in the business office of the athletic department during my last semester of college. The problem solving aspect of architecture really helped in my ability to help run a small business.

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

I was hired as Direct of Operations at Hot Shots Sports in 2012, and just continued to work hard and show my commitment to the company. This led to my promotion to Vice President of Operations, and then Vice President. I’m not sure there is anywhere else to go from here, but the growth of the company has caused my role to expand as well throughout the years.

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

I find myself in meetings with all men. It’s most frustrating to be in a meeting talking about girls basketball or girls softball, and have everyone around me being a man. I really want to see women in these roles, inspiring young girls and showing them that after they finish playing sports, there is a place for them still in the sports world.

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

This is certainly challenging as I have a 5-year old! When I first had my child and returned to work, it was one of the hardest things I have done! I was willing to work at any time prior to having my child, and I didn’t have that time anymore. This meant I had to be more productive during work hours to prove my work would still get done. Fortunately our company offers flexible hours and I have also proven to the owners that I will get work done outside of hours if needed, so I have earned the flexibility that offers a better balance now then I had before having a child.

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?

I have not had any! My coaches in high school and college were men, and the owners and majority of the staff I work with are men. I strive to be a role model to young girls and show that there are career options in sports for women.

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?

In my youth sports role, I do feel women are given fair opportunities, and in my company specifically hard work is rewarded regardless of gender. I do feel that having more females in coaching roles will help to expand gender equality, and we look for strong female coaches when we are hiring to help promote this.

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

I love seeing kids love playing sports, being active, being with friends, and learning new things. Most challenging for me is ensuring we are able to offer the programs that a community will find beneficial. Sometimes we know this info, and other times we are just guessing until we get it right!

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

Do what you love, work hard, and find a culture that rewards this hard work.

Any fun facts or interesting things you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, pet peeves, etc.?

I love my 5-year old son and my 2 dogs. My favorite sport in the winter is women’s/girls basketball and in the warmer months softball because I still play it!