Christen Press has never been one to shy away from a challenge. As a World Cup-winning soccer player and Olympian, she made her mark on the field with relentless determination, strategic thinking, and an unyielding competitive spirit. But her story extends beyond the pitch.
Today, Press is not only an elite athlete but also a pioneering entrepreneur, leveraging her discipline and leadership to redefine women-led businesses. Her journey from sports to entrepreneurship is a masterclass in resilience, brand-building, and breaking barriers—one that every aspiring female founder can learn from.
Table of Contents
The Entrepreneurial Pivot: Turning a Passion for Change into a Business Venture
Like many elite athletes, Press faced the inevitable transition from professional sports to the next chapter of her career. But instead of stepping away from the game, she decided to redefine it. Recognizing the lack of visibility and investment in women’s sports, she co-founded re—inc, a purpose-driven lifestyle and fashion brand aimed at reshaping cultural norms and fostering gender equity in business and sports.
Her pivot to entrepreneurship wasn’t without challenges. Building a company from the ground up required her to navigate uncharted territory—fundraising, product development, brand positioning, and the complexities of running a business in a highly competitive market. However, her background as a professional athlete gave her a unique edge. The same resilience that helped her power through grueling training sessions and high-stakes matches became the foundation for her business strategy.
Breaking Barriers: The Power of Women in Business
Press’s transition into entrepreneurship aligns with a broader movement of female athletes taking control of their careers and financial futures. Historically, women in sports have faced limited endorsement deals and unequal pay, but today, they are leveraging their personal brands to create long-lasting business legacies.
As a female founder, Press is breaking new ground by championing ethical business practices, inclusivity, and sustainability. Her company re—inc isn’t just about selling products—it’s about fostering a community of changemakers who believe in challenging outdated systems and pushing for equity in every space, from boardrooms to stadiums.
Lessons from Christen Press: What Female Founders Can Learn
- Resilience is Key: The challenges of building a business mirror the setbacks faced in sports. Press teaches us that perseverance and adaptability are crucial in both arenas.
- Authenticity Builds Strong Brands: She has successfully leveraged her personal story and values to create a brand that resonates with a wider audience.
- Teamwork Drives Success: Just as she thrived in a team environment in soccer, she understands the importance of surrounding herself with the right co-founders and partners.
- Purpose Fuels Innovation: re—inc isn’t just another fashion brand—it’s a mission-driven company aimed at redefining the status quo. Entrepreneurs who align their businesses with meaningful causes gain deeper customer loyalty.
A Legacy Beyond the Game
Christen Press’s story is a testament to the power of women taking control of their careers and creating opportunities where none existed before. She embodies the shift from seeing athletes solely as competitors to recognizing them as business leaders who can influence industries far beyond sports.
For ambitious women entrepreneurs and investors looking to make an impact, her journey serves as inspiration—proof that grit, vision, and purpose can drive meaningful change.
Take the Next Step
Are you an aspiring entrepreneur ready to launch or scale your own business? Join M Accelerator to gain expert mentorship, business training, and funding opportunities that will help you build a thriving company. Learn more here.
