Ashley Murphy

SVP at Premier Lacrosse League

“Thank you so much, Ashley Murphy, for sharing your journey and thoughtful insights with us. Your leadership at Premier Lacrosse League and the impact of “PLL Play” in growing the game at all levels is truly impressive.Your story—starting as an entrepreneur and building your way into a senior leadership role within a professional league—is inspiring for anyone looking to create their own path in the sports industry.

Your emphasis on critical thinking, leadership, and the life lessons gained as a student-athlete really shows how foundational experiences can lead to long-term success.Your reflections on balancing motherhood, business-building, and personal growth are incredibly relatable and empowering. It’s encouraging to hear how strong planning, prioritization, and gratitude play a central role in how you manage it all.

We especially appreciate your belief that performance and results should speak loudest, and that working hard while staying grounded in both confidence and humility can open doors. Your passion for the sport, focus on giving back to the next generation, and your commitment to building something meaningful are what make your leadership so powerful.” – Zara Halabu

Please describe your role and responsibilities at that position?

Leader of ‘PLL Play’ which offers national lacrosse opportunities to players of all ages and skill levels.

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

Political Science & Business Institutions. Liberal arts degree taught me to read, write, and think critically. Student athlete experience fostered leadership, time management, worth ethic, confidence, and the value of teamwork, goal-setting, and a relentless pursuit of progress and excellence.

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

Small business entrepreneur/founder led to acquisition and absorption into the Premier Lacrosse League, along with a leadership position in the emergent professional sports league.

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

Business building, COVID disruption of live events business, and the prioritization of family and motherhood alongside business commitment. Overcome with hard work, prioritization, goal-oriented focus, perspective, a strong support network, and surrounding myself with good people.

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

Relentless pursuit of planning/organization, unwavering focus / commitment to the plan, and continued evaluation/prioritization of what matters most. Practicing gratitude for both life and work, and their relation to each other.

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?

Yes, mentors and role models are important and valuable to both mentors and mentees.

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?

Performance and results speak loudest of all. Work hard, be fair, communicate well, exude both confidence and humility, and simply focus on being good at what you do.

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

Pace, team-orientation, competitiveness, passion for content, giving back to the next generation, value to society. Business building is hard and worth it!

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

Work hard, build confidence, find passion, be reliable and organized, and believe in the power of each to fuel success.