To be completely honest, I wasn't exactly sure what to expect from the inaugural espnW Summit last year. However, shortly after arriving in San Diego, it was very evident that the next few days were going to be unforgettable.
I really enjoyed my primary "job" for the Summit, which was hosting a panel on how we can make women's sports more relevant. It featured two legends -- Billie Jean King and Julie Foudy. As always, they were amazing.
But that was just one of several experiences that I will truly never forget. I know that the discussions and ideas we came up with in year one are already being successfully implemented at ESPN and elsewhere. But we all know that there is still much work to be done, and it starts Monday in Tucson with another awesome lineup.
World-class, champion athletes like Lisa Leslie, Michelle Kwan, Summer Sanders and Abby Wambach will be there. Executives like New Orleans Saints owner Rita Benson; Sheila Johnson, the owner of the Washington Capitals/Wizards/Mystics; ESPN's Christine Driessen; representatives from Nike and Gatorade; and countless other difference-makers will be there... and that's just scratching the surface!
For all of you first-timers, or for those of you following along with the Summit from home, be ready to learn more about our roles with women in sport, be ready to contribute by sharing your experiences and ideas and be ready to let down your guard during some powerful, uplifting, humbling and emotional moments (yes, tears will be shed!).
The sessions are great, the sports activities are fantastic, and needless to say, I am THRILLED to be emceeing this year's Summit.
Sage Steele is co-host for SportsCenter on ESPN.
