University of Minnesota Athletics
Past Inspiring Women Honorees Gather in Minneapolis
7/24/2017 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
The Minnesota Lynx and Land O'Lakes invited past recipients of the Inspiring Women Award to gather at Mayo Clinic Square. These award winners included Gopher women's basketball radio commentator Lynnette Sjoquist, who was present, and the 2014-15 Minnesota team, not present due to travel and other conflicts.
At the Lynx offices, past winners had a chance to socialize and network. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve and veteran player Plenette Pierson then spoke about leadership and fielded questions from the group.
The Inspiring Women series celebrates women throughout the state of Minnesota who inspire, motivate and encourage others through personal and professional leadership.
Sjoquist received the Inspiring Women Award in 2015. She has been part of the Gophers' radio team for 15 seasons. Sjoquist is also a member of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the All American Red Heads, the first women's professional basketball team.
Also in 2015, Head coach Marlene Stollings and Rachel Banham accepted the award on behalf of the 2014-15 Gophers. That team set numerous Minnesota records and made the program's first NCAA Tournament appearance in six years even after Banham suffered a season-ending injury.
