Empowering Women in the Vegas Golden Knights Organization
From the very outset, Bill Foley and George McPhee fostered a culture within the Vegas Golden Knights that emphasizes that the journey to becoming a Stanley Cup Champion requires unwavering dedication and effort. Women have always played a pivotal role at every level of the organization, with two standout figures being Melanie Leahy and Katy Boettinger, who are integral to Foley and McPhee’s daily operations.
Melanie Leahy: Chief of Staff
As Foley’s Chief of Staff, Melanie Leahy has progressed from her role as an executive assistant within the Golden Knights to overseeing other ventures under Foley’s banner, such as Fidelity, Cannae, and Foley Family Wine. She is also a vital member of the VGK Inner Circle planning team, which bridges Foley’s diverse interests and properties with hockey fans. Additionally, Leahy is deeply involved in incorporating Golden Knights branding in City National Arena and T-Mobile Arena locker rooms, as well as organizing the annual team retreat to Rock Creek Cattle Company in Montana each autumn. Her multifaceted role is expansive, and Leahy is passionate about every aspect of her work.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to be in my position and to learn from Bill,” Leahy reflected. “Even without prior experience in such a role, I was confident in my ability to tackle any task, and it’s essential for me to be hardworking and reliable.”
Since the inception of the Golden Knights, Leahy has evolved alongside the franchise, despite it not being her initial career trajectory. Her journey has led her to become a beacon of strength in the sports industry.
Inspired by Family
Leahy draws inspiration from her sister, a neonatal nurse practitioner, small business owner, and dedicated mother of three. “My sister has a hectic schedule but always finds time to connect and positively impact those around her,” Leahy shared. “She is a phenomenal role model, embodying the truth that if you desire something, you can attain it.”
With her niece attending Golden Knights games, Leahy appreciates the significance of presenting women in sports as a normalized concept. She treasures this representation.
“To young women like my niece, I’d advise them to embrace their authentic selves, and never undermine their achievements,” Leahy encouraged. “It’s wonderful to take pride in your passions and successes.”
Collaboration and Growth
Throughout her time with the Golden Knights, Leahy has sought guidance from numerous colleagues, including Director of Hockey Administration Katy Boettinger, to nurture the team’s guiding principle of ‘Always Advance, Never Retreat.’
“Katy has been instrumental in my growth. I’ve received tremendous career advice from Kim Frank, President of the VGK Foundation, and Director of Hockey Operations Tom Poraszka,” Leahy expressed. “While we’re colleagues, I’ve relied heavily on their knowledge and expertise over the past eight years.”
Katy Boettinger: Director of Hockey Administration
Like Leahy, Katy Boettinger has been with the Golden Knights since their inception. Appointed as the Director of Hockey Administration, her role began when George McPhee became General Manager in 2016. Boettinger is responsible for handling immigration matters for international players and staff, supporting General Manager Kelly McCrimmon, and serving as a liaison for players’ families. She is the welcoming presence for newcomers, helping them adjust to life in Las Vegas.
With over 20 years in the hockey world, Boettinger’s career began with the Washington Capitals after college, where she also balanced teaching. An English degree led her to instructing while transitioning back and forth with the Capitals before ultimately thriving in Las Vegas. She feels grateful to have navigated her journey without feeling that being a woman has hindered her progress.
Overcoming Barriers
“There are women impacting various levels in our industry, and for me, being a woman in sports holds immense significance,” Boettinger remarked. “I never viewed teaching as an obstacle to pursuing my passion. It’s about finding unique ways to apply your skills and experiences.”
Boettinger has faced challenges, yet she believes that confronting tough questions and navigating difficult moments has shaped her into the empowered woman she is today.
“There will always be moments of doubt, asking, ‘Why am I doing this? What’s the purpose?’ But those experiences lead to growth,” she noted. “You must carve out your own path that reflects who you are while propelling you toward your goals.”
Inspiration and Recognition
Boettinger looks up to the remarkable individuals in the hockey operations office for motivation, including Poraszka, McCrimmon, McPhee, and Assistant General Manager Andrew Lugerner, as well as Kelley Rosset, Vice President of Hockey Operations Administration for the NHL, who has made a lasting impact in her role.
“Kelley has a long history in the NHL, continuously serving with a smile and earning widespread respect,” Boettinger said. “Her ability to excel in her work while remaining joyful and uplifting others is truly inspiring.”
A Historic Achievement
When the Golden Knights captured the Stanley Cup in 2023, Boettinger proudly became one of 52 names engraved on the trophy. She stands as one of only twenty women honored on the Stanley Cup, an acknowledgment she had never anticipated but treasures dearly.
“Seeing my name alongside friends like Nancy Beard and Liz Koharski is incredibly special,” Boettinger shared. “It’s an affirmation of the work we’ve all done.”
Trailblazers in Sports
Together, Leahy and Boettinger exemplify the profound impact of women in the Vegas Golden Knights organization. Their resilience and strength shine brightly, inspiring those around them and enhancing the ethos of the Golden Knights.
“When we say we’re a Golden Knights family, it’s genuine,” Boettinger concluded. “We are committed to fostering that sense of community, making it a reality rather than just a slogan.”
