Leaf Trading Cards has taken a definitive stride in recognizing the incredible talent and influence of female athletes with the release of their 2024 Leaf Metal Women of Sport collection. This groundbreaking trading card series pays homage to legendary figures from the past, current stars making their mark in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era, along with promising talents of the future—a remarkable first in the trading card industry.
The collection boasts an array of autograph sets such as Herstory, She Got Game, Starstruck, Dazzlers, Unbreakable Duals, and Anime Nation, featuring a diverse lineup of iconic female athletes. From revered sports legends like Mia Hamm, Alex Morgan, Cheryl Miller, Lisa Leslie, Jennie Finch, and Doris Burke to contemporary NIL trailblazers like Livvy Dunne from LSU, Paige Bueckers from UConn, Maya Brady from UCLA softball, and Makenzie Steele from Clemson track, these cards showcase the strength, skill, and charisma of women in sports.
Leaf’s Director of Marketing and Licensing, CJ Breen, expressed his excitement for this project, highlighting the importance of recognizing and honoring female athletes who have historically been underrepresented in the trading card hobby. The collection also shines a spotlight on rising stars in professional sports, including Sophia Smith and Trinity Rodman from the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, WNBA standout Cameron Brink, and Diana Flores, a standout in Mexico’s flag football team.
One of the standout additions to this collection is Duke freshman Toby Fournier, renowned for her impressive dunking abilities showcased in viral social media videos. Fournier’s exclusive deal with Leaf makes her the only incoming freshman women’s basketball player to be featured in the collection, adding a fresh and dynamic element to the lineup.
In addition to individual cards, the collection presents captivating combinations of stars, such as a grouping of U.S. soccer icons and a dynamic duo card featuring WNBA star Brink and college basketball sensation Bueckers. Bueckers also receives special recognition in an animated card that pays tribute to her All-American status at UConn, adding a unique touch to her representation in the collection.
CJ Breen envisions this collection as a platform not only to elevate the visibility of female athletes in the trading card world but also to promote inclusivity and diversity within the hobby. By showcasing the talents and stories of these remarkable women, Leaf Trading Cards aims to inspire a new generation of collectors and fans to engage with the sports card community.
As Leaf continues to lead the charge in celebrating and acknowledging the achievements of women in sports, the Women of Sport trading card collection stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and impact of female athletes across generations. Through this innovative series, Leaf not only bridges the gap between the sports world and collectors but also fosters a greater appreciation for the exceptional contributions of women in athletics.
