Photo via Odessa Jenkins

Although Odessa “O.J.” Jenkins will be competing in her last IFAF Women’s World Championship this month, her career in football is far from over.

That’s because her development in the sport has been a life-long passion and journey.

A Los Angeles native, Jenkins played football at the youth level before transitioning to basketball. Her career on the hardwood flourished, as she landed a scholarship to play at Cal Poly.

After moving to the Dallas area, Jenkins was looking for a way to channel her desire to compete athletically. It was in the Lone Star State where Jenkins discovered professional women’s football.

Jenkins thrived as a running back, eventually earning an invitation to join the Women’s U.S. National Team. She played a key role in helping the U.S. capture a gold medal in the 2013 IFAF Women’s World Football Games.

She later helped form the Dallas Elite, a team in the Women’s Football Alliance.

In her final international competition as a player, Jenkins hopes to seize the opportunity to inspire other women to pursue their passion on the gridiron.

“We care about sisterhood, representing our country and inspiring women who are watching around the world,” Jenkins said. “That’s what these games are about.”

When Jenkins speaks about football, her passion for the sport is crystal clear. She loves the game and is excited to help advance the sport internationally.

“We play for the love of the sport… no, it’s bigger than love,” he said. “I want to be able to put this game on a world stage and make a name for myself and my sisters.”

After the IFAF Women’s World Championship, Jenkins will retire as a player but will continue to be involved in women’s football through coaching.

Whether the U.S. team wins or loses, Jenkins knows she’s playing a critical role in growing women’s football.

“I’ll walk off the field with my head held high knowing I gave it my all for my country, my team, and women everywhere.”

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