IMG Academy Foundation Announces Second Class of Women in Sports Committee Scholars

BRADENTON, Fla. (Sept. 4, 2025) – The IMG Academy Foundation today announced its second class of Women in Sports Committee Scholars, welcoming six exceptional young women from across the globe who will begin their journey at IMG Academy this fall.

The Women in Sports Committee – comprised of sports leaders and icons including Chair and IMG Academy Chief People Operations Officer Lisa Strasman, broadcaster Cari Champion, film producer and businesswoman Dany Garcia, broadcaster Michele Tafoya, professional athlete Lindsey Vonn, and new members former college softball coach Sue Enquist and professional athlete Sloane Stephens – is dedicated to expanding access and opportunity for young women in sport. Each committee member personally mentors and sponsors one student-athlete in the program.

“These young women represent the very best of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity,” said Lisa Strasman, Chair of the Women in Sports Committee. “They have demonstrated grit, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence both in the classroom and in their sport. This program is about opening doors, creating networks, and equipping them to lead on and off the field and we can’t wait to be a small part of their journeys as they win their future.”

This year’s class includes student-athletes in tennis, softball, golf, and lacrosse, each selected for their athletic promise, academic achievement, and character:

Ximena Gutiérrez García (Tennis, Class of 2027, Chihuahua, Mexico): “Receiving this scholarship means a lot because it shows me that people believe in what I’m doing, and it pushes me to keep improving and working hard every day.”

Inaya Iqbal (Tennis, Class of 2029, Oakville, Ontario, Canada): “My parents were reaching a point where they didn’t know how to keep helping me continue this journey, and receiving this scholarship has opened the next door for my development.”

Laci Martinez (Softball, Class of 2026, Columbus, Georgia): “It’s more than a blessing to be selected. It shows how people see my potential and believe in me – and that motivates me to work harder and strive for greatness.”

Veronika Niklin (Golf, Class of 2026, Staten Island, New York): “This is truly my dream school, and without this scholarship, attending would not be possible. It means the world to me knowing I can come back to IMG Academy.”

Trinity Onigbanjo (Softball, Class of 2028, McDonough, Georgia): “This scholarship reminded us that hard work, faith, and community can open doors. It’s not just financial support – it’s a vote of confidence in everything I’m working toward.”

Anala Teemer (Lacrosse, Class of 2027, Long Beach, New York): “This scholarship means everything. It’s a blessing that lifts a huge burden and allows me to pursue my dreams without limits.”

The Women in Sports Committee program provides recipients with a full aid opportunity to IMG Academy, mentorship from committee members, and access to world-class athletic training, academic support, and leadership development opportunities.

“The Women in Sports Committee program and what it accomplishes is exactly why the IMG Academy Foundation was created,” said Kate Massey, Executive Director of the IMG Academy Foundation. “Our goal is to empower student-athletes by providing them with the opportunities, access, and support they need to win their future and thanks to this committee, that dream can become a reality.”

The Women in Sports Committee was launched in 2023 as part of the IMG Academy Foundation’s mission to empower youth to win their future through education, athletics, and personal growth.

For more information on the Women in Sports Committee and the IMG Academy Foundation, visit imgacademy.com/foundation

About IMG Academy

IMG Academy is the world's leading sports education brand, providing a holistic education model that empowers student-athletes to win their future, preparing them for college and for life. IMG Academy provides growth opportunities for all student-athletes through an innovative suite of on-campus and online experiences:

• Boarding school and camps, via a state-of-the-art campus in Bradenton, Fla.
• Online coaching via the IMG Academy+ brand, with a focus on personal development through the lens of sport and performance
• Online college recruiting, via the NCSA brand, providing content, tools, coaching and access to a network of 40,000 college coaches

To learn more about IMG Academy and its on-campus and online experiences, visit www.imgacademy.com.