H&R Block’s Initiative ‘A Fair Shot’ Supports Female Student-Athletes

During Woman’s History Month, the new program ‘A Fair Shot’ created opportunities for female student-athletes. The initiative partnered with Fabletics, and Jambys. With top assets, the organizations reduced disparities for women in sports.

In 2023, the program expanded to support fifty athletes from thirteen sports. The initiative recently incorporated NCAA Division II and Division III schools. Also, the project expanded to Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Within the program, student-athletes learned about finance and social media campaigns. 

Students practiced their tax preparation skills. With Name, Image, and Likeliness (NIL) deals, athletes received money. H&R Block provided services and advised participants in unique situations. TikTok campaigns helped student-athletes in finding these opportunities.

California State University Northridge soccer forward Anessa Campos won a gold medal at the 2022 Deaflympics. Florida A&M University track star Aniya Hoggatt finished second in the Celebration Pointe Indoor Classic. University of Carolina basketball guard Zia Cooke scored twenty-one points in a recent game. University of Oklahoma pitcher Jordy Bahl has a twenty-two to one win-loss record. 

To learn about the program, read Bahl’s interview below.

The Knockturnal: I think this opportunity is very exciting. How did you get started in the role?

Bahl: I got involved in A Fair Shot because the mission of the campaign made it a no-brainer! 

The Knockturnal: How does your sport inspire you?

Bahl: My sport inspires me by granting me the platform to connect with little girls out there like I once was, and use my voice to stand up for what I believe in. I also love the teammates that I have gotten to know and play with throughout the years. I have always been here competing for them. Softball grants me the opportunity to compete with fierce, competitive women. 

The Knockturnal: Can you share any fond memories involving sports, whether during practice or in a game?

Bahl: A memory I will always hold near to my heart is my travel ball team growing up: ‘Nebraska Gold.’  After I turned eighteen, we won nationals. I had just finished my senior year of high school and was about to start my first year of college. Many of us grew up playing together. We had always been the underdog. I got to reach a high goal during summer travel softball with them. It was one of the most special moments I have experienced. Through my sport, I attended a couple of teammates’ baptisms. Through this sport, I  grew spiritually with so many special women. 

The Knockturnal: Can you share what you’ve learned from this experience?

Bahl: From this experience, I have learned that softball is simply a game. It goes so much deeper than the game itself. It is a way for women to compete, grow, use their voices, and ultimately stand for change by doing something that we love.