Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer George.
Hi Jennifer, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey started in sports once I kicked my first soccer ball at the age of 9, from that point on I realized quickly that sports was going to be my future. I was blessed to receive a full scholarship to play basketball at the University of Florida which was an amazing experience academically and athletically being around some of the best athletes in the country. Afterwards I was drafted 3rd round to the WNBA Indiana Fever in 2013, which would start my professional career playing overseas in Spain, Puerto Rico and playing for the Jamaican National Women’s Basketball team from 2014-2018. Once I decided to hang up my basketball career I dove into strength and conditioning which had been a passion of my since High School. Fast Forward to 2020 when my experiences motivated me to start a nonprofit organization called Girls Basketball Worldwide, with the mission of impacting young girls in basketball and in sport to think bigger than the game and provide programming for underserved communities for girls only. I got to where I am today by the coaches that taught be how to handle my business like a woman and of course my loving parents who provided me the foundation to serve others and dedicate my life to a bigger cause.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Life is never linear, I of course had struggles along the way especially in my athletic career. When I was cut from the Indiana Fever it devastated me and sent me into a depression that I just covered up by jumping into the next season and playing more basketball even though my confidence in my ability had dropped so low. I look back at my 20s and see a young woman that was trying to figure herself out as she transitioned from playing the sport I dedicated my entire adolescents to, but through my faith I was able to find my purpose with impacting people through health and fitness and than later on through my Foundation.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a strength and conditioning coach for High School and College. In my professional career I am most proud of my ability to push people out of their comfort zone and see past what they thought their bodies can achieve. What sets me apart from others is simple, I’m one of one. I’m my authentic self every single time I step in front of a sports team, mother’s that want to be in shape, and everyone else in between.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
The industry is already in a shift as we are prioritizing mental health and recovery more than ever now. Which is great for the longevity of the athletes in their perspective sports.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: jennifergeorge3/girls.basketball.worldwide
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JenniferGeorge32
