10 Best Athletes Influencing Sports Culture on Instagram

10 Best Athletes Influencing Sports Culture on Instagram

Social media has emerged as a transformative avenue for athletes, allowing them to cultivate not just their individual brands but also influence the broader culture surrounding their respective sports. Athletes particularly benefit from Instagram, which provides a straightforward means to connect with fans, celebrate their victories and setbacks, and offer glimpses into the realities of modern athletic life.

As influencers, these sports personalities create a connection between their on-field accomplishments and personal life experiences, fostering a deep, relatable bond with their followers.

 

1. Alexa Hendricks – Volleyball Star and Social Media Influencer

Alexa Hendricks, Defensive specialist - NIL Profile - Opendorse

A Division 1 volleyball player at the University of Louisville, Alexa Hendricks leverages Instagram to provide her followers with a behind-the-scenes view of a collegiate athlete’s life. During her last season, she participated in 111 sets, made 22 assists, and achieved 97 digs. On her social media, Alexa conveys not only her sports accomplishments but also her personal narratives, fostering deep connections with her supporters.

Her posts reflect her journey, displaying both victories and obstacles, which resonates with young athletes. Many of her followers from Kentucky find motivation in her messages, prompting them to actively engage with sports culture.

Through captivating stories from her Division 1 volleyball experience, Hendricks draws in her audience on Instagram. Her dynamic content inspires her Kentucky fanbase and encourages them to embrace sports culture through various means, whether it be playing, strategizing on social media, or partaking in exclusive interviews with brands like Kentucky sportsbooks. Her influence seamlessly connects the realms of athletic inspiration and active engagement.

 

2. Khoi Young – Men’s Gymnastics Standout at Stanford

Khoi Young - Men's Gymnastics 2025 - Stanford Cardinal - Official ...

Khoi Young, a senior gymnast at Stanford University, has gained noteworthy recognition both in the gym and on social media. As a two-time NCAA All-American excelling in pommel horse and vault events, Khoi has established himself as an elite gymnast. His regular posts feature gymnastics routines and motivational content designed to encourage emerging athletes.

Khoi’s social media footprint serves as a treasure trove of resources for gymnastics enthusiasts, allowing them to share experiences and gain insights about the sport. His TikTok and Instagram followings continue to expand as fans enjoy his blend of entertainment and inspiration.

 

3. Masai Russell – Hurdler and Social Media Star

Bullis Alumnus Masai Russell Wins Olympic Gold in Women's 100m Hurdles | News Article

Masai Russell made a significant mark on the University of Kentucky’s track and field program as a hurdler and sprinter. Her credentials include a bronze medal in the 100H, a fourth-place finish in the 400H at the NCAA championships, and a silver medal in the 4x100m relay.

Beyond athleticism, Masai utilizes her social media to give fans a window into her daily routines, training sessions, and engaging GRWM (get-ready-with-me) videos. Through these platforms, she motivates aspiring athletes, particularly those who aspire to replicate her success and seek her training guidance.

 

Makenzie Steele – Merging Athletics With Culinary Skills

Makenzie Steele, a former distance runner from Clemson University, adopts a distinctive angle on social media by intertwining her athletic narrative with healthy eating suggestions. As a content creator, she shares recipes that fuel her performance while encouraging balanced lifestyles among her followers.

Her posts emphasize the significance of nutrition in achieving athletic goals, presenting not only delicious recipes but also meal ideas conducive to improved performance. For athletes aiming to enhance their diets or fans interested in her running experience, Makenzie offers a comprehensive perspective on living and eating like an athlete.

 

McKelary Robertson – Basketball and Entrepreneurship on Social Media

McKelary Robertson, a former Division 1 basketball player, is also an entrepreneur. As a former point guard at Azusa Pacific University, he showcases his athletic talents while simultaneously developing his clothing brand. His social media is rich with GRWM videos and insights into balancing life as an athlete with responsibilities as a business owner.

Many fans find McKelary’s success in managing basketball alongside entrepreneurship to be inspiring, representing the modern athlete’s ability to excel in diverse areas both on and off the court.

 

Emily Cole – Track and Field All-American

Emily Cole, who previously competed for Duke University’s track and field team, has gained recognition in both athletics and social media. As a member of the 2022 USTFCCCA All-American Second Team and 2022 All-ACC First Team in the 3000m steeplechase, her accolades are extensive.

Through her social media channels, Emily imparts training routines and tips, assisting young athletes in comprehending the requirements for thriving at the Division 1 level. Her content comprises personal stories, GRWMs, and motivational advice designed to encourage her followers to maximize their potential.

 

A.J. Henning – The Comedic Wide Receiver

A.J. Henning, a senior wide receiver at the University of Northwestern, infuses humor into his social media presence. In addition to earning the title of Special Teams Player of the Year in 2022 and achieving two-time All-Big Ten honors as a return man, A.J. entertains his fanbase through comedic videos that resonate with athletes across all levels.

His unique blend of sports and humor has made him a fan favorite, as many appreciate his light-hearted perspective on the challenges of being a collegiate athlete.

 

Riley Burrill – Soccer and Psychology Advocate

Riley Burrill, a former midfielder at Santa Clara University, presents a distinctive social media profile that highlights not only her soccer journey but also her academic aspirations to become a psychiatrist or family therapist. Her content ranges from pre-game rituals to glimpses into the daily life of a student-athlete, creating relatable material for others managing the demands of academics and athletics.

 

SahrFelix Sandy – Transition from Soccer Pro to Social Media Influencer

SahrFelix Sandy, currently a graduate student-athlete at Temple University, documents his life as both a soccer player and a finance student via social media. After graduating from Elon University, SahrFelix provides insights on managing the pressures of combining academics and sports, sharing advice for younger athletes navigating the collegiate landscape.

 

Anna Camden – Basketball Star With a Passion for Storytelling

Anna Camden, a forward on Richmond’s women’s basketball team, is celebrated for her humorous TikTok clips that weave together her basketball experiences with entertaining narratives and GRWMs. Anna employs her platform to present relatable and amusing content, endearing herself to fans who appreciate her genuine personality and candid behind-the-scenes glimpses of college basketball.

By utilizing Instagram and other social media outlets, these athletes are revolutionizing fan interactions with sports, personalizing the athlete experience, and fostering enduring connections with their followers. From volleyball courts to soccer pitches, these influencers are reshaping sports culture for future generations.

 

Picture of Author: Amanda Jones
Author: Amanda Jones

Amanda Jones specializes in content marketing. She holds a Master's degree in Marketing Management from the University of Florida and a Content Manager Professional Certificate from the University of Miami.

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