The 2025 ESPY Awards, held in Hollywood, showcased incredible talent in sports and honored athletes making significant contributions to their communities. Among the noteworthy recipients were two young women from the Chicago area, Olivia Ohlson and Emily Pape, who were recognized with the prestigious Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award.
Ohlson, hailing from Evanston, previously received a regional ESPY award three years ago and has since channeled her passion for sports into her nonprofit, Diversify Golf. Through her initiatives, she aims to provide access to sports for girls of color who historically have faced barriers. “Sports creates a team spirit and a sense of responsibility. It’s a space for kids to connect and learn about sharing,” Ohlson expressed, highlighting her commitment to fostering community through athletics.
Meanwhile, Park Ridge native Pape is making her mark at Cornell University, where she plays Division 1 basketball. Motivated by environmental documentaries, she has become an advocate for climate action by joining the nonprofit Eco Athletes and establishing the Cornell Student Athletes for Sustainability group, which boasts over 150 members. “We’re athletes trying to make the world a better place,” Pape stated, reflecting her dedication to both her sport and the planet.
Both athletes are now among 20 regional winners nationwide who will receive scholarships or grants to support their causes. Ohlson and Pape plan to invest their awards back into the initiatives they are passionate about, embodying the spirit of leadership and change that Billie Jean King represents.
The ESPY Awards not only celebrate athletic excellence but also recognize the power of sports as a platform for positive impact, and it’s inspiring to see local leaders like Ohlson and Pape paving the way for future generations.
The 2025 ESPYS will be broadcast live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET/PT from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, honoring outstanding athletes and their commitment to social change.