More Than a Scorecard: Mentorship and Growth in Women’s Athletics

When Jordan Amelon first stepped into coaching, women's sports lived mostly in the margins—rarely televised, rarely discussed. Today, she's watched that world shift dramatically. As the women's golf coach at Mount Mercy, Amelon has seen first-hand how visibility can transform not just a game, but the lives of the athletes who play it.

"Visibility has grown tremendously over the course of my playing and coaching career," she said. "When I first started, it was difficult to find women's sports on television, even at the highest levels. Now, most major leagues receive consistent coverage, and fans have multiple ways to follow athletes and teams. In particular, women's college golf is gaining airtime for various tournaments, which has been a significant step forward. This exposure not only elevates the game, but also creates real opportunities for athletes to build a following and pursue a professional career."

For Amelon, that exposure isn't just about recognition—it's about possibility. Every televised round, every live leaderboard, and every highlight reel chips away at the old belief that women's sports are niche. It reminds her players that their ambitions are valid, visible, and attainable.

Amelon's coaching philosophy centers on more than scores or swing mechanics. She's focused on developing athletes who lead—on the course and far beyond it.

"Our core belief is that there's nothing you can't achieve if you're willing to put in the work," she said. "We don't fixate on individual outcomes; instead, we emphasize the daily habits that move us toward our goals. With young women especially, we stress the importance of using their voice. Speaking up often feels bigger in our heads than it actually is, and confidence grows when they're willing to step into those moments."

Amelon's belief in the power of women's leadership comes from her own experience growing up surrounded by strong female mentors.

"I've had so many amazing women in my life," she said. "When I first started organized sports, I had my mom and Tia Doyle coaching my flag football program. They were the only female coaches and I was the only girl playing. They also happened to be two of the most knowledgeable people on the field. I was very lucky to grow up with that kind of reverse gender bias. Had I not had two women who I looked up to and greatly admired, I have no doubt that my athletic career would look very different."

Later, in college, Amelon found new mentors who shaped her path toward coaching. "When I was in college I was fortunate enough to play for Mary Giorgi and Megan Menzel. Both played an instrumental role in me pursuing this career, and continue to be great mentors that I lean on."

Their guidance taught her that leadership isn't about volume or bravado—it's about preparation, empathy, and the courage to stand by your principles.

For young women who dream of leading teams or building careers in athletics, Amelon offers a message rooted in both confidence and curiosity.

"I would encourage young women to be confident in what they bring to the table," she said. "Everyone offers something unique—perspective, experience, energy, insight—and that value doesn't disappear just because you don't know everything yet. No one does."

She also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning. "At the same time, be a hungry learner. Stay curious. Ask questions. Seek feedback. Absorb as much as you can from the people around you—not only what to do, but sometimes what not to do. Some of the most valuable growth comes from recognizing the kind of leader you don't want to become. Confidence paired with humility and a commitment to growth is a powerful combination."

For Amelon, that blend of self-assurance and openness is what turns talented athletes into lasting leaders—and what's driving the continued rise of women's sports, one swing at a time.