Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/160497
community," Syesha says. "It's like any team—there's strength in numbers." Speaking of which, longtime member Jeff Hawes has untold numbers of great experiences through his involvement with one of the WAC's most popular groups—the men's "I initially joined just to get a says Women of the WAC's mentorship model has helped her already, both professionally and personally. "I don't like speaking in crowds, but being part of this group has forced me to do it, and that's helped me grow as an individual," she says. "Having professional women to bounce things off of is a huge benefit." Members of Women of the WAC meet in a variety of Club locations. Women of the WAC will also include a philanthropic component. "Whether it's helping children or supporting women in abusive relationships, we want to pool our resources and work together and share something with the 30 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2013 workout, and because it was one of the few places in town where you could get a good run in," Jeff recalls. As he moved through various league teams and played on the WAC's traveling teams, Jeff formed friendships with players not only around the WAC but also around the country. "There are guys I've probably played against for 30 years," he says. "You see those guys a couple of times a year and reignite those friendships and stay in touch. That's just a great part of the whole deal. You create friendships that last a lifetime." o p p o s i t e p a g e : F R o m t o p l e F t, b a R b a R a k i n n e y, m a R y e l l e n j i l e k , j o h n b a n g ( 2 ) basketball league.