Honoring Trailblazers: Jenna Harner & Shelby Cassesse Shine on National Girls and Women in Sports Day

Celebrating Women in Sports

Today marks National Girls and Women in Sports Day, a vital occasion that began in 1987 when President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation to recognize the achievements of female athletes. This day not only highlights their accomplishments but also reinforces the importance of equality in women's sports—a message that resonates more than ever in today's landscape.

As we reflect on this day, I want to shine a spotlight on two exceptional women who embody the spirit of this celebration: Jenna Harner and Shelby Cassesse of WPXI.

Meet Jenna Harner

Joining WPXI in 2020 just as the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted normalcy, Jenna Harner carved a niche for herself by building relationships despite the distance. Her ability to connect with viewers and sports teams through digital channels was impressive—it showcased her adaptability during a challenging time. When she eventually met her colleagues and the athletes in person, she had already earned their respect.

Jenna's journalistic prowess shines through her storytelling, which has garnered accolades like the Murrow Award. She won this honor for her incredible piece on Pitt Basketball's assistant coach, Milan Brown, who fortunately survived a cardiac arrest due to the quick actions of colleagues. For those who want to read more about this incredible story, you can check it out here.

Introducing Shelby Cassesse

Then we have Shelby Cassesse, who joined the WPXI team in 2024. Shelby's passion revolves around sports storytelling; she excels at unveiling the less-seen facets of athletes' lives. Her commitment to narrative-driven journalism has earned her an Emmy, recognizing her captivating story featuring Olympic gold medalist Michael Grady, who honored his late great-uncle, a WWII veteran, during a moving ceremony in Paris. For those interested in her award-winning work, check out her story here.

The Road Ahead

As fans gear up for exciting sporting events, we can expect both Jenna and Shelby to take the reins in WPXI's coverage of the 2026 Milan Olympics and Super Bowl LX. Their unique perspectives and dedication to storytelling promise to enhance the viewing experience for audiences across the board.

A Legacy of Equality

The essence of National Girls and Women in Sports Day is encapsulated in the drive toward equality—both in the sports arena and beyond. Celebrating athletes like Jenna and Shelby is just the beginning. Their stories contribute to a larger narrative inspiring the next generation of female athletes and journalists.

Join the Celebration

I invite everyone to reflect on the profound impact women's sports have on society. Whether it's through support for female athletes, encouraging girls to participate in sports, or acknowledging the work of women in sports journalism, we all play a role. Together, we can continue the movement toward equality.

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