CRAFTING A PITCH AS A FEAMLE ATHLETE THAT GETS YOU NOTICED BY POTENTIAL SPONSORS

A compelling pitch improves your chances of getting a brand’s attention and securing sponsorship. Here’s how to get it right. In the world of sport, talent might get you through the door, but it’s how you present that talent that keeps the conversation going. When it comes to securing sponsorships, knowing how to craft a strong, structured pitch can be one of your most powerful commercial tools.

The best pitches aren’t flashy or full of buzzwords. They’re clear, relevant, and thoughtful. Whether you're reaching out to a local business or a global brand, what matters is how well you can communicate your value, and why that value matters to them.

We’ve developed the PITCH method to help you write outreach emails that brands actually want to read. It’s a simple framework you can apply every time you reach out, and it works whether you’re sending a first-time email or following up after a connection.

THE PITCH METHOD: YOUR FORMULA FOR SPONSORSHIP SUCCESS

P – PERSONALISE YOUR MESSAGE

Before you even write “Hi [Name],” do your homework. Which campaigns has this brand recently launched? Who do they already work with? What values do they promote? When a brand receives an email that clearly shows you’ve taken time to understand who they are, it stands out. It proves you’re not just copying and pasting the same message to 20 other companies.

Example:

“I’ve been following your recent campaign on sustainability in sport and as an athlete who’s also working on reducing my carbon footprint, this really resonated with me.”

I – INTRODUCE YOURSELF CLEARLY

Now’s the time to make your mark. Keep it short but powerful. Let them know your sport, your level, and your mission. What are you passionate about? What do you want to be known for? This part helps them see the person behind the performance.

Example:

“I’m a Team GB athlete and Commonwealth medallist in judo. I’m passionate about making sport more accessible for girls from low-income backgrounds.”

T – TELL THEM WHAT YOUR BRING TO THE TABLE

This is where you show your value. Sponsorship is a two-way relationship, so explain what you can offer them. Who is your audience? How do you engage them? What type of content do you create? Whether it’s boosting brand awareness, supporting campaigns, or sharing your authentic story, tell them why you’re a good investment.

Mention things like:

• Your audience size and platform(s)

• Engagement rate or average reach

• Past brand collaborations or campaign results

• Skills you bring - such as public speaking, content creation or community work

C – CREATE A CONNECTION

A great pitch goes beyond admiration. It creates alignment. Find the common ground between you and the brand. What do you both care about? Where do your values overlap? This is your chance to move from “I love your product” to “We share a purpose.”

Example:

“Like you, I believe in breaking boundaries, on and off the track. That’s why I think we’d be a great fit.”

H – HIGHLIGHT YOUR CALL TO ACTION

End strong. Don’t leave them guessing about the next step. Ask for a quick call, offer to send your media kit, or suggest collaborating on an idea.

Example:

“I’d love to send over my media deck or jump on a 15-minute call to explore how we could work together.”

And if you don’t hear back within a week? Follow up. A polite nudge often turns silence into opportunity.

WHY IT WORKS

Brands aren’t just looking for ambassadors, they’re looking for partners who get it. A well-structured pitch shows that you understand not only your own value, but how to make it relevant to theirs. It builds trust, shows professionalism, and starts the kind of conversation that can turn into long-term collaboration.

And the best part? You don’t have to wait to be discovered. With the right approach, you can put yourself on a brand’s radar and stay there. Take time to refine your pitch. Use the PITCH method, personalise each message, and remember: you’re not just selling what you do. You’re sharing who you are and the impact you can make together. So next time you sit down to write that outreach email, remember: just PITCH it.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional advice; individual outcomes may vary and the Women's Sports Alliance and 17 Sport accepts no liability for any actions taken based on this content.