Athletes Who Changed the Game

DIFFERENT SPORTS. DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS. DIFFERENT BARRIERS TO BREAK. ONE THING IN COMMON: THEY GOT THERE FIRST … FEARLESSLY.

Read about more than 50 athletes who took risks, overcame the odds, and changed the rules. From historical figures to modern trailblazers, these athletes never gave up, wouldn’t take no for an answer, and transformed the world of sports forever.

Ernie Davis

First Black Heisman Trophy Winner

Kyle Maynard

First Quadruple Amputee Professional Athlete

Simone Biles

First Gymnastics Champion to Promote Mental Health

Jason Collins

First Openly Gay Male in a Major American Sport

Nancy Lopez

First Hispanic LPGA Champion

Abby Roque

First Indigenous U.S. Women’s Hockey Player

Discover more inspiring stories, from the first Autism advocate in pro surfing to the first legally blind Olympic runner, and take their fearless spirit with you both on and off the court!