Published: November 20, 2023 07:00 AM
The New Agenda-Northeast Women’s Sports Organization recognizes women in six New England states for their dedication to girls and women in sports and recommends individuals worthy of induction into the Hall of Fame. Newtown’s Jan Brown was one of the newest Hall of Fame inductees to be honored on November 5th at Woodland Golf Club in Auburndale, Massachusetts. Brown was chosen for her significant contributions to the advancement of girls and women in sports.
According to a press release from the New Agenda-Northeast Women’s Sports Organization, Brown’s journey as a sports advocate began in 2001 when she was named state coordinator for women’s softball over 50 by the Connecticut Sports Management Group . In 2003, she organized her full-court drop-in pickup basketball league for women over 30. She continues to serve in these roles today, creating opportunities for countless women to discover the sport for the first time or extend their love of active sport participation into their later years.
Since retiring in 2011, Brown has expanded her advocacy efforts beyond softball and basketball. After she discovered pickleball through her drop-in program, she became hooked and began teaching her free pickleball lessons to beginners in the community. Since 2017, she has served as Newtown’s USA Pickleball Ambassador. To support the community’s growing interest in the sport, she raises funds and advocates for community funding to repair existing courts and build new pickleball courts.
In recognition of his success as a National Senior Games medalist and his contributions to creating and promoting sports opportunities for people in his community, he was named the 2012 Connecticut Masters Athlete of the Year by the Connecticut Sports Management Group and the 2021 Selected as an athlete.Best of the Year Award by Newtown Bee.
According to a press release, “These awards are a testament to her continued dedication and impact on the community. However, Yang’s goal was not fame or recognition, but rather a career in which she lacked the opportunity or confidence to participate in the sport. To continue to be a role model and inspiration to Deaf girls and women of all ages. Jan Brown, who has contributed to women’s sport for 23 years, continues her commitment to providing sporting opportunities for others. She has never charged a penny for her work, and she explains that the rewards lie in the friendships, shared experiences, and fulfillment that comes from sharing in the growth, success, and joy of others. Through selfless dedication and passion, Jan inspires others to break down perceived age-related barriers and reap the many benefits of lifelong participation in sport. It continues.”
A total of 503 women were recognized. Their professional responsibilities include teaching, coaching, officiating, advocating, and mentoring in public and private schools, the collegiate level, community recreation and sports programs, and sports media.
Newtown’s Jan Brown (left) receives the award from New Agenda North East Women’s Sports Organization board member Jay Stewart. Mr. Brown was elected to the organization’s Hall of Fame.