sports and have longed for the opportunity to
work in our chosen field, not necessarily on
the court or the playing field, but in some-
thing related to sports. Today major
American companies are acknowledging the
emerging women's market. This develop-
ment is creating a demand for women in
decision-making capacities (to help explain
and service this market). Carole Oglesby and
her co-authors have not neglected these pro-
fessional breakthroughs and in describing
them here, they have created even more op-
portunities for all of us.

The book is enriched by the consideration
of so many of the issues that relate to
women's involvement with sports. The ency-
clopedic reach of Oglesby's and her
co-authors' research is a great contribution to
all of us who care to know what is going on
today.

Finally, in contemplating the long-range
value of this book, I wonder "What do all
these women have in common?" Their vi-
sion, their perseverance, their steadfastness,
and their belief in themselves seems to be a
thread that runs through all the unique sto-
ries. The lessons from the field, the value of
teamwork, and the belief in yourself are all
the qualities that are required to have a suc-
cessful life, on the field or off. Each woman
faced challenges, some of them seemingly
insurmountable. Each woman conquered
those circumstances. Just as it is fun to read
a favorite old story over and over again, these
stories will provide endless inspiration to
succeeding generations of women, young and
old alike. Today, in my role as chair of the
board of Oshman's Sporting Goods, these
stories renew my fortitude and courage as I
face personal business challenges of great
magnitude. They serve as a reminder to me
of our family values and regenerate my en-
ergy to do my best.

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