New Heartlanders Staffer Spotlights Women in Sports

Crystal Page helps execute the team's EmpowerHer Night to inspire young women interested in sports careers.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 9:23pm

When Crystal Page joined the Iowa Heartlanders hockey team in October 2025, she had just two and a half weeks before her first game. Despite the quick turnaround, Page has embraced her role as the team's director of game presentation and partnership fulfillment, helping shape the fan experience on game days. One of her early initiatives was the Heartlanders' EmpowerHer Night, an event celebrating women in the sports industry and inspiring young women to pursue their passions.

Why it matters

Women's sports continue to grow in popularity and visibility, but the industry remains male-dominated. Events like EmpowerHer Night help showcase the valuable perspectives and contributions women bring to sports, while also inspiring the next generation of female sports professionals.

The details

As director of game presentation and partnership fulfillment, Page plans the Heartlanders' video board content, music, announcements, and on-ice activities, as well as coordinates with community groups and anthem singers. A Colorado native, Page studied sports management and marketing in college and fell in love with the sports industry while serving as a student manager for her high school hockey team.

  • Crystal Page joined the Iowa Heartlanders in October 2025.
  • The Heartlanders held their EmpowerHer Night on January 31, 2026.

The players

Crystal Page

The director of game presentation and partnership fulfillment for the Iowa Heartlanders hockey team.

Gabi Mann

A fan who attended the Heartlanders' EmpowerHer Night and enjoyed the music and upbeat environment.

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What they’re saying

“I kind of just got thrown into the deep end a little bit. But it's been a lot of fun, and it's been a really great learning experience.”

— Crystal Page, Director of Game Presentation and Partnership Fulfillment

“Women bring just a great different perspective, different thoughts and ideas. We're changing it, making it better and seeing how we can improve all of it and really just be inclusive with everybody and making women feel kind of valued in sports.”

— Crystal Page, Director of Game Presentation and Partnership Fulfillment

“Stay true to your passions, your beliefs, and what you kind of dream in. You belong there, and you can make it.”

— Crystal Page, Director of Game Presentation and Partnership Fulfillment

What’s next

The Heartlanders plan to continue hosting events like EmpowerHer Night to celebrate and inspire women in sports.

The takeaway

Crystal Page's work with the Iowa Heartlanders highlights the valuable perspectives and contributions women bring to the traditionally male-dominated sports industry. Events like EmpowerHer Night help make the sports world more welcoming and inclusive for the next generation of female sports professionals.