Kayley Shade is a trailblazing designer whose story is as impactful as the visuals she creates. Living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Kayley has built a career defined by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering passion for sports.
Her journey began with her dedication to football, which inspired her to pursue a career in media and design. Kayley spent seven years as the Director of Media Relations for the Sioux Falls Storm, where she played a pivotal role in building the team’s brand, enhancing its media presence, and connecting fans to the game through social media. Today, she continues to leave her mark on the industry as the Director of Media for the Indoor Football League, leading the charge in crafting content and bold designs that celebrate the excitement of the sport.
In 2024, Kayley expanded her influence by launching Kayley Shade Design, a company dedicated to helping brands stand out. From creating hype-worthy graphics to delivering dynamic branding and social media content, her company is built on the energy and excitement of sports and driven by the same passion that has defined her career.
In 2022, she was recognized with the prestigious Outstanding Employee with a Disability Award by South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, solidifying her as a leader in her field.
Living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy has shaped every part of who Kayley is. It’s taught her resilience, adaptability, and how to approach challenges with creativity and determination. While she may not be able to play sports, that never stopped her from pursuing a career in football—a sport she loves deeply.
She found her place in football through media and design, where she could channel her creativity into building connections and crafting bold, engaging visuals. It showed Kayley that she could make a meaningful impact in the sport, even off the field.
For Kayley, it’s not about what she can’t do—it’s about what she can do. Football has given Kayley the opportunity to prove that passion and determination matter more than any obstacle, and that mindset drives everything she creates.