Sollenberger joined Fox Sports’ digital team two years ago and wasted no time improving production processes, budgetary conversations and workflows—allowing the team to grow even during times of financial pressure. “Rach walked through our doors Day 1 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, leaving her no time for a learning curve ahead of one of our biggest events of the year. Making it more difficult, most of us were 18 time zones away in Australia—not the ideal welcome mat,” recalls Michael Bucklin, SVP of Fox Sports Digital. “But when we returned, not only did she know the whole office, but she had transformed it for the better, and was respected by the staff like she had been here for years.” Every event or initiative—from the Men’s & Women’s World Cup to the Super Bowl to daily content and business efforts—benefits from the foundational infrastructure Sollenberger has established. She approaches her career by embracing the same qualities she relied on as a former Division 1 soccer player at Oregon. “Balancing academics and sports taught me resilience, discipline and a strong work ethic, which I bring to every professional challenge. Staying authentic means valuing my unique perspective, strengths and even weaknesses, as they shape how I work and build relationships,” she says. “By leaning into my competitive spirit, adaptability and team mindset, I create genuine connections and foster trust. This advice reminds me that authenticity—grounded in the qualities I’ve developed—is my greatest asset for making a real impact.”
CHAMPION
Michael Bucklin
“I’ve worked on problems and opportunities for years, only to send in Rachel who solves them in days. As her manager, what makes this skillset more pronounced is she’s so proactive. Half the time I show up and the problem was solved before I even asked her to look into it.”