As Super Bowl LVII draws closer, the City of Tampa has a reason to cheer beyond the game. Local hero Deliah Autry, a three-time gold medalist, is being celebrated for her incredible achievements and unwavering dedication to her community. Autry’s journey from a young athlete to an international champion exemplifies the spirit of Tampa. A former employee of the Tampa Parks and Recreation Department, she continues to inspire future generations, remaining a steadfast leader in her hometown.
Deliah Autry’s Early Passion for Sports
Autry’s passion for sports began at the age of five when she first walked into the Kwane Doster and Port Tampa community centers. It was here that she discovered her love for sports, setting the foundation for her future success. Over the years, she excelled in flag football, basketball, and volleyball at T.R. Robinson High School, where her determination and perseverance stood out. Tampa, a city known for its grit, was the perfect backdrop for Autry’s rise to greatness. Her journey became a source of inspiration for others, especially as Doechii once said, “There’s so much talent in Tampa.”
The Road to Success and Giving Back
After high school, Autry’s journey continued at the University of South Florida, where she played collegiate sports and simultaneously worked as a Recreation Leader with the Parks and Recreation Department. In her role, she coached various sports, from flag football and soccer to T-ball and even Latin dance. Her love for the community extended beyond coaching, as she furthered her education, earning a master’s degree from Florida A&M University. In 2020, she returned to Tampa, driven to give back by hosting flag football clinics for local children, a move that demonstrated her dedication to fostering the same passion for sports in others.
A Champion On and Off the Field in Tampa
“Deliah Autry is a winner on and off the field,” says Mayor Jane Castor. Autry’s list of accomplishments speaks for itself—three gold medals with the U.S. Women’s National Team, two college degrees, and the completion of her MBA while staying committed to her community. “She’s a true role model,” said Tony Mulkey, Director of Tampa Parks and Recreation. Autry’s philanthropic efforts are as impressive as her athletic achievements. Through her nonprofit organization, Camp13, she has reached nearly 1,500 local kids, hosting 15 clinics thus far. She has plans for two more this year, one on March 17 at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park and the other on August 1 at Riverfront Recreation Center. Registration for these clinics is now open online, offering an invaluable opportunity for young athletes to learn from a true champion.
How She Earned a Spot on the U.S. Women’s National Team
Autry’s perseverance led her to play club-level flag football while in college, a decision that ultimately earned her a coveted spot on the U.S. Women’s National Team in 2021. Her team went on to win world championships in 2021 and 2024, as well as securing a gold medal at the 2023 IFAF Americas Championship. Today, Autry is setting her sights on the 2028 Olympics, aiming to further cement her legacy in the world of sports. Autry’s remarkable success reflects her continuous drive to compete and serve her community.
With her eyes set on the future and an unwavering commitment to her community, Deliah Autry is not just an inspiration to athletes in Tampa, but to all who believe in the power of perseverance and giving back.
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