March 28, 2025
In honor of Women’s History Month, we are proud to introduce you to Bayview resident Darlene Hickman, a woman whose passion and dedication helped shape the future of women in athletics.
From an early age, Darlene was encouraged by her father to pursue whatever dreams she had. She aspired to be a teacher and carried this dream into adulthood. After starting a family with her husband in their home on Queen Anne Hill, she found a way to combine her love for education with her passion for athletics. She became a coach for the Cross-Country team at St. Anne’s, where her daughters attended school. For Darlene, this role was especially meaningful growing up, opportunities for girls in sports were scarce. She was determined to be the mentor she wished she had.
As her passion for coaching grew, Darlene expanded her role, becoming a coach for the Track and Field team. She was more than just a coach—she was a advocate for her students. She believed that while rules provided structure, the primary goal was ensuring kids had the chance to participate. She never let minor details overshadow the bigger picture: making sure every child had the opportunity to compete and grow.
Darlene’s dedication and leadership did not go unnoticed. Her strong presence and advocacy led to a groundbreaking moment—she was selected as one of the handful of women officials at the 1984 Olympic Games, making history in the process. Her journey didn’t stop there. In 1996, she was invited back to the Olympics as a Judge and Inspector of the Race Walk. Over her tenure in the world of Track and Field, she has served as an inspector, a clerk, the Olympics Secretary to the Women’s Track and Field, and the Chair of the Women’s Marathon.
Darlene has always led with confidence, never questioning her place in spaces where women were historically underrepresented. She paved the way for future generations, ensuring that young athletes—especially girls—had the support and encouragement they needed to succeed. A former student reflected on Darlene’s impact, saying, “I love Darlene. I appreciate everything she did to allow me to participate in sports. I owe her the world—she is a true legend. Without Darlene, I wouldn’t have ever done the things that I did athletically, so I owe it to her.”
Darlene’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate her incredible contributions and the legacy she has built.
