In the conversation about connecting marginalized communities and sports, exposure seems to be one of the best options. LaDondra Wilson, Dallas Wings’ VP of Social Responsibility, believes that kids can’t believe in what they can’t see. The Wings and Panther City Lacrosse Club regularly take kids from these communities to the games to gain first-hand experience with the product. 

LaDondra believes that it is not only about visiting schools once in a while and telling them what it is about but also about checking schools periodically and ensuring they have the right equipment. 

Our guest, LaDondra Wilson, is the VP of Social Responsibility and Executive Director of the Dallas Wings Community Foundation. She is passionate about connecting underserved populations with resources and opportunities to help them succeed. 

In this episode, our conversation spins around the use of sports as a pathway to education, job opportunities, and progress. LaDondra talks about her background in social work and how she managed to adapt her knowledge and use it in the traditional sports space at the Wings. We also go through how to bring more people from minorities to the traditional sports and the esports and gaming space. 

Visit the Dallas Wings website: https://wings.wnba.com/

Connect with LaDondra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ladondra-wilson-she-her-hers-53566653/

Full Episode Breakdown:

3:37 – Dr. Marc introduces today’s guest, LaDondra Wilson.

7:40 – LaDondra talks a bit about her background in social work and how she dealt with the lack of experience in her new position at the Wings. 

9:01 – LaDondra explains what her job at the Wings is and how they help the community. 

12:34 – The little big sister. LaDondra describes her experiences with the Wings’ WNBA players and the relationship of mutual respect and admiration with them.

15:51 – Never took her social work hat off. LaDondra explains how she stays connected with the community’s needs.

19:16 – LaDondra explains some programs the Dallas Wings and Panther City Lacrosse Club use to engage minorities and promote traditional sports within the community. 

22:16 – Social issues don’t end when the last buzzer rings. LaDondra and Dr. Marc talk about the summer programs.

26:02 – LaDondra shares her thoughts on attracting more people from marginalized sectors of society to sports, esports, and gaming.