Celebrating Excellence: Washington and Lee University Unveils First Cinda Rankin Trailblazer Award Winners

LEXINGTON, Va. — On September 26, Washington and Lee University honored 40 years of women’s sports during its 38th Athletics Hall of Fame ceremony. At this event, they introduced the Cinda Rankin Trailblazer Award. This award celebrates remarkable individuals who have significantly influenced W&L athletics and paved the way for future generations.

The first recipients of the Cinda Rankin Trailblazer Award are:

• Alston Parker Watt ’89 — A dedicated three-sport athlete in golf, swimming, and lacrosse. Watt played a vital role during a time when W&L was adapting to NCAA sport sponsorship requirements.
• Martha Cornbrooks ’01 — A founding member of the field hockey program. Cornbrooks helped establish a sport that thrives at W&L today.
• Courtney Smith Edman ’93 — One of the first players on the women’s basketball team, Edman was crucial for laying the groundwork for the program’s success.
• Barry Machado, professor of history emeritus — An advocate for women’s sports, Machado was the first head coach of the women’s basketball team, helping develop the program from its inception as a club sport.

Cinda Rankin, who joined the W&L Hall of Fame in 2017, became the university’s first full-time female athletics staff member in 1985. She developed the first women’s athletic programs after coeducation began that fall. As head coach of women’s tennis for 19 seasons, she led the team to 383 victories, 17 Old Dominion Athletic Conference titles, and a national championship in 2007. Her players received over 50 All-America honors and multiple academic awards.

“Cinda Rankin’s vision and commitment transformed women’s athletics at Washington and Lee,” said Jan Hathorn, the Michael F. Walsh Director of Athletics. “This award keeps her spirit alive and inspires future Generals.”

Women’s sports have gained traction over the years, with **recent data showing** that participation in women’s athletics at colleges has increased by over 50% since the 1990s. Not only do these programs foster teamwork and leadership skills, but they also contribute to improved mental and physical health among participants. Support for women’s sports is growing, reflecting a shift in societal attitudes toward gender equality in athletics.

Washington and Lee University has a long history, established in 1749. Today, it is part of NCAA Division III and the Old Dominion Athletic Conference, showcasing over 500 student-athletes across 24 varsity sports. This commitment to athletics reflects a dedication not just to competition, but to personal growth and achievement.

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