OUR STORY
We partner with women in sports and their allies to create a more equitable future, and to produce leaders through the power of sport.
WHY WE
EXIST
FOR THE FUTURE OF SPORT.
Key the Ball is a consulting and advocacy group helping coaches, athletes, trainers, and sports leaders move forward through funding, development, and education.
THE FOUNDER
ASHLEY CORNWELL
Head of Coaching Development and Resources for the Women's National Football Conference.
Ashley Cornwell has built her career where leadership, player development, and opportunity meet. Before joining the WNFC, she coached at Bucknell University and Oberlin College and worked with the NFL's International Player Pathway Program.
Across those roles, she has helped prepare athletes for the next level while continuing to expand what is possible for women in football.
The first woman to serve on a football coaching staff at Bucknell, in Patriot League history, at Wisconsin, in the Big Ten, and at any Power Five program.
11
NFL Draft picks during her time with Wisconsin
7
Undrafted free-agent signings with Wisconsin
3
Years in the NFL International Player Pathway Program
1st
Woman selected for the NCAA Champions Forum for Football
LEADERSHIP WITH A
MEASURABLE IMPACT
A Coaching career shaped by national stages and a commitment to widening the path for others.
PROGRESS EARNED AT EVERY LEVEL.
From Wisconsin to the NFL development pipeline, Cornwell's work has combined detailed football knowledge with a larger mission: building access, confidence, and opportunity.
University of Wisconsin-Madson
2019
NFL development programs
2022-25
International Player Pathway
2023-25
Bucknell University
2024
WNFC + Key the Ball
TODAY
