In a landmark move for sports journalism, USA TODAY has hired its first-ever women’s sports editor, signaling a powerful shift in how will be covered nationwide. As one of the most widely read newspapers in the United States, USA TODAY’s decision marks a commitment to expanding and elevating women’s sports reporting an area long overlooked by mainstream media.
The newly appointed editor brings deep experience, fresh vision, and a passion for fair representation. This moment is not just about one hire. It’s about changing newsroom culture, spotlighting female athletes, and finally giving women’s sports the platform it deserves.
Here are five important things to know about this historic development.
1. USA TODAY Names Lindsay Schnell as First Women’s Sports Editor
The person stepping into this groundbreaking role is Lindsay Schnell, a seasoned journalist with a strong background in both sports reporting and gender equity in athletics. Schnell has previously worked as a national sports reporter and covered high-profile events like the NCAA Final Four, the WNBA playoffs, and Olympic trials.
Known for her sharp storytelling and advocacy for underrepresented voices in sports, Schnell has consistently highlighted female athletes, coaches, and women-led programs throughout her career.
Her new position gives her the authority to lead USA TODAY’s editorial strategy on shaping coverage, assigning stories, and building a team that reflects the growing audience for female-driven athletic content.
2. USA TODAY Responds to Demand for More Coverage
USA TODAY’s decision didn’t come out of nowhere. Over the past few years, there has been a surge in interest and viewership for women’s. Events like the Women’s World Cup, NCAA women’s basketball tournament, and the WNBA Finals have shattered ratings records.
Still, receive less than 15% of total media coverage, according to recent studies. Fans and athletes alike have called out the gap and demanded change.
USA TODAY’s move to hire a dedicated editor is seen as a response to this rising demand. It also reflects a larger industry trend where media outlets are beginning to acknowledge the commercial and cultural value of women’s sports.
3. What Lindsay Schnell Will Focus On as Women’s Sports Editor
As USA TODAY’s first editor, Lindsay Schnell will lead an ambitious plan to reshape how the outlet covers women’s athletics.
Her responsibilities will include:
- Assigning and editing stories focused on women’s college and pro sports
- Leading coverage of major events like the WNBA, NCAA, NWSL, and Olympics
- Creating profiles of rising female athletes and coaches
- Collaborating with video, social media, and podcast teams to reach new audiences
- Hiring and mentoring reporters passionate about covering
In her early statements, Schnell has emphasized the need to go beyond game scores and deliver storytelling that connects with readers including investigations, human-interest features, and coverage that elevates female voices.
4. Industry Leaders Praise USA TODAY’s Groundbreaking Move
USA TODAY’s announcement was met with praise from across the journalism and sports world. Editors, athletes, advocacy groups, and rival publications commended the decision as an overdue but necessary step toward balanced coverage.
Several women athletes posted their support on social media, with WNBA players calling the move “a huge win” and “a sign of progress.”
Media watchdog groups that track gender equity in sports coverage have also highlighted this moment as a potential turning point. With USA TODAY being a major national platform, the hope is that other newspapers and networks will follow with similar roles and teams.
Some industry veterans believe that this could lead to better sponsorship opportunities, more visibility for athletes, and improved fan engagement across all levels of women’s sports.
5. Why This Moment Matters for the Future of Journalism
Lindsay Schnell’s appointment isn’t just symbolic it could have long-term ripple effects throughout the sports journalism industry.
First, it shows that major media outlets are finally starting to take women’s sports seriously as both content and business. With growing TV deals, sponsorships, and fan bases, women’s sports are no longer seen as niche but as central to the sports landscape.
Second, this move opens doors for other underrepresented journalists. When newsrooms elevate diverse voices into leadership roles, it changes how stories are told and who gets to be in the spotlight.
Lastly, USA TODAY’s decision sets a precedent. It challenges other outlets both large and local to think about their own coverage gaps. Who’s telling the stories? Who’s being left out? And what can be done to build a more inclusive media environment?
What’s Next for USA TODAY and Women’s Sports
USA TODAY plans to roll out new content streams under Schnell’s leadership, including a newsletter, dedicated online hub, and podcast series. There are also plans for live event coverage and behind-the-scenes reporting from upcoming tournaments like the 2025 WNBA season and the Summer Olympics in Paris.
In addition to editorial growth, USA TODAY is expected to collaborate with sister platforms under Gannett (its parent company), allowing cross-platform promotion of women’s sports content. This unified strategy could amplify coverage to millions of new readers.
With Schnell at the helm, fans can expect more consistent, high-quality, and creative coverage that gives women athletes the attention they’ve long deserved.
Final Thoughts
USA TODAY hiring its first women’s sports editor is more than just a headline it’s a milestone. It represents change, progress, and a deepening respect for the role women play in the world of sports not just on the field, but also in the newsroom.
As Lindsay Schnell begins this new chapter, the future of women’s sports coverage looks brighter, bolder, and far more inclusive.
This isn’t just a win for one editor it’s a win for every girl who dreams of seeing her story told on the front page.
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