Kate Fagan

Kate Fagan is a sports journalist, author, and former professional basketball player known for her work exploring mental health, LGBTQ+ issues, and women's sports. Her most notable book, "What Made Maddy Run" (2017), examines mental health challenges faced by college athletes through the story of Madison Holleran, a University of Pennsylvania track athlete who died by suicide. As a staff writer for ESPN from 2012 to 2018, Fagan contributed to various platforms including espnW, Outside the Lines, and Around the Horn. She played Division I basketball at the University of Colorado from 1999 to 2004, an experience she documented in her memoir "The Reappearing Act: Coming Out as Gay on a College Basketball Team Led by Born-Again Christians" (2014). Fagan has established herself as a leading voice on the intersection of sports, mental health, and social issues. She continues to write and speak about these topics while serving as a regular contributor to multiple media outlets, including NPR's "Only A Game" and writing for outlets such as Sports Illustrated.

Readers connect deeply with Fagan's candid writing style and ability to handle sensitive topics with care. Reviews often mention her skill at weaving personal narratives with broader social commentary. What readers liked: - Clear, engaging storytelling that makes complex issues accessible - Personal vulnerability in "The Reappearing Act" - Research depth in "What Made Maddy Run" - Balance between sports context and human elements What readers disliked: - Some found "What Made Maddy Run" emotionally difficult to read - A few readers noted repetitive sections in her books - Some wanted more detailed solutions/recommendations for mental health issues Ratings across platforms: "What Made Maddy Run" - Goodreads: 4.3/5 (13,000+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.7/5 (1,200+ reviews) "The Reappearing Act" - Goodreads: 3.9/5 (1,000+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.5/5 (200+ reviews) Common review quote: "Important story that needed to be told, even if it wasn't always easy to read."

What Made Maddy Run (2017) An examination of the life and death of college athlete Madison Holleran, exploring mental health, social media, and the pressures faced by young athletes.

All the Colors Came Out (2021) A memoir about Fagan's relationship with her father, their shared love of basketball, and his battle with ALS.

The Reappearing Act (2014) A personal memoir detailing Fagan's experience as a basketball player at the University of Colorado while coming to terms with her sexuality.

Rebecca Lobo writes about women's basketball and athlete experiences from an insider perspective. She covers themes of identity and competition in sports, similar to Fagan's approach to athletic narratives.

Jessica Luther investigates sports culture and gender issues through reported nonfiction. Her work examines systemic problems in athletics and institutional power structures that affect women athletes.

Julie DiCaro focuses on sports journalism with an emphasis on gender dynamics and discrimination. She writes about toxic culture in sports and mental health challenges faced by athletes.

Joanne O'Callaghan chronicles LGBTQ+ experiences in sports through personal narratives and historical accounts. She documents the evolution of acceptance and representation in athletics over time.

Mary Pilon produces research-driven sports narratives that explore cultural impact and identity. She examines how athletics intersect with broader social issues and institutional systems.