Breaking Barriers in Sports Entertainment
Women-focused sports bars are transforming the sports industry, creating spaces where female athletes and fans are celebrated. It began in April 2022 with the opening of The Sports Bra in Portland, Oregon. The movement gained momentum as Seattle’s Rough & Tumble debuted, followed by A Bar of Their Own in Minneapolis and Watch Me! in Long Beach in 2024. These establishments offer fans an inclusive environment to celebrate women’s sports and highlight athletes often overshadowed in traditional sports bars.
A Vision for National Expansion
Jenny Nguyen, founder and CEO of The Sports Bra, announced plans to franchise the groundbreaking concept. Backed by Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and owner of Angel City FC, Nguyen aims to expand nationwide. Franchisees must share a passion for promoting and empowering women in sports. “Our team is ready to find the right people to help take The Sports Bra to cities across the U.S.,” said Nguyen.
Women’s Sports on the Rise
The bar’s growth reflects increased visibility and support for women’s sports. For the first time, gender-equal participation was featured at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The WNBA experienced record attendance, and NCAA women’s games drew millions of viewers. Media coverage of women’s sports tripled in 2023, and revenue projections for elite women’s leagues are expected to surpass one billion in 2024.
From Concept to Movement
Nguyen’s idea started as a personal dream—a bar where every screen showcases women’s sports. With only 5% of televised sports coverage focused on women, The Sports Bra reimagines what a sports bar can be. It has hosted pivotal events, including a WNBA expansion panel led by Senator Ron Wyden and Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
Inspired Menus and Community Impact
The menu reflects Nguyen’s culinary roots with Vietnamese caramelized pork ribs and fish sauce wings. Ingredients are sourced from women-owned farms, breweries, and distilleries. The bar also prioritizes the inclusion of gluten-free, vegan and non-alcoholic options. Events such as “Gracegiving” deliver meals and hygiene kits to the community, emphasizing service alongside celebration.
Unforgettable Moments in Women’s Sports
The Sports Bra has become a hub for iconic moments. Fans gathered to witness Serena Williams’ emotional farewell match and the Portland Thorns’ NWSL Championship victory. Packed crowds and tearful celebrations highlight the bar’s role as a sanctuary for women’s sports fans.
Looking Ahead
With national expansion on the horizon, The Sports Bra continues to elevate women in sports while inspiring the next generation. Blending passion, representation, and purpose paves the way for a future where women’s sports take center stage.
