National Signing Day Marks a New Era for Atlanta Truth and Women’s Professional Football

Last weekend’s National Signing Day with the Atlanta Truth Women’s Professional Football Team was more than a roster announcement—it was a powerful reflection of how far women’s football has come and where it continues to go.

Hosted within the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC), the most competitive and provocative women’s football league in the world, the event marked another step forward as the league heads into its sixth season in 2025. With 17 teams across the United States and players representing more than 20 countries, the WNFC continues to prove that women’s football is not a moment—it’s a movement.

The significance of this moment becomes even clearer when viewed through the lens of the sport’s history. There was a time when women’s football was treated as a novelty rather than a legitimate competition. Earlier leagues often emphasized spectacle over skill, with branding that felt cringeworthy and dismissive, overshadowing the athleticism, discipline, and football IQ of the women who played the game. Despite the controversy and lack of respect, women continued to show up, train, and compete, refusing to let the narrative define their worth.

Today, the landscape looks very different. The rapid growth of girls flag football—backed by the NFL and organizations like the Atlanta Falcons and Falcons owner Arthur M. Blank—has created a clear pathway for girls to engage with the sport early and envision a future in football. From youth leagues to the professional level, football for women is no longer an afterthought. It is established, respected, and here to stay.

The Atlanta Truth Women’s Professional Football Team stands as a reflection of that progress. The organization welcomes women of all ages, sizes, and races, emphasizing opportunity over limitation and talent over labels. National Signing Day showcased that inclusivity, bringing together athletes from diverse backgrounds united by their love of the game and commitment to excellence.

Equally important is the leadership behind the scenes. Tri-Legacy Sports Group (TLSG), a woman-led organization, currently serves as the Official Management Team for the Atlanta Truth. In a sports industry where women are still underrepresented in executive leadership, this representation is both intentional and impactful.

TLSG’s leadership team includes Dr. Pamela Larde, a former Atlanta Truth running back who now serves as Chief Executive Officer; Dr. Sonayia Shepherd Akinlade, Chief Operations Officer; and Dionne L. Mack, PCC, Chief Strategy Officer. Their collective leadership brings lived experience, operational expertise, and strategic vision to the organization—ensuring that decisions are made with both the athlete and the future of women’s football in mind.

Why This Moment Matters

National Signing Day was not just about new players joining a roster. It was a statement about empowerment, representation, and possibility. It affirmed that women’s football is no longer fighting for legitimacy—it has earned it. Through inclusive teams, woman-led leadership, and a growing pipeline of girls entering the sport, the game continues to evolve in ways that reach far beyond the field.

As the Atlanta Truth prepares for the upcoming season, the momentum continues to build. Team practices will begin on January 10 and will be held three days per week, setting the foundation for what lies ahead. The organization will also host its Official Media Day on March 7, 2026, offering fans and media a closer look at the team. The excitement will continue at home this spring, with home games scheduled for March 28, April 11, and May 2—dates that promise to showcase not just competition, but the continued rise of women’s professional football.

The Atlanta Truth is not just building a team. It is helping shape the future of women’s professional football—one signing, one season, and one bold step forward at a time.