Co-owners Audrey Corley and Kat Moore will open Title 9 in the former Melrose District Short Leash Hotdogs space in January (photo by Jill McNamara Photography).
In a Nov. 25 social media post Short Leash Hot Dogs told their followers, “We have some BIG NEWS!”
After 15 years, Brad and Kat Moore have sold the company, which they launched from an 80-square-foot food truck and eventually landed at a brick-and-mortar location on 7th Avenue in the Melrose District in 2018, to “embark on a new adventure.” The Melrose location closed Dec. 21, and the new owners will relocate the company. The building will not be empty for long, however.
Expected to open its doors in January 2025 is Title 9 Sports Grill, the city’s first women-focused sports bar. Inspired by Title IX legislation, the establishment aims to “elevate women’s sports and create an inclusive community hub that redefines the traditional sports bar experience.”
The new concept is the result of a collaboration between Audrey Corley, founder of Melrose’s Boycott Bar and a former college basketball coach and Short Leash’s Kat Moore, who is an avid soccer player. Together, they want to create a destination that celebrates the power of women both on and off the field.
The owners say that Title 9 Sports Grill is more than just a bar; it’s a catalyst for cultural change. By highlighting women’s sports, it aims to inspire a shift in the Phoenix community and beyond. The goal is to create a world where young girls feel empowered to pursue athletics, fans support women’s teams, and female athletes are equally celebrated.
“This isn’t just another sports bar; it’s a movement,” said Moore. “Phoenix has never seen a space like this, and we’re here to celebrate women’s sports with front-and-center coverage, a welcoming atmosphere, and a menu that honors the athletes we admire.”
Corley added, “We saw a real gap in the sports bar world. Women’s sports often take a backseat, and we wanted to create a space where they are celebrated.”
The bar will feature women’s sporting events on its many screens, providing a space for fans, families and friends to cheer for their favorite teams. The menu will offer elevated versions of classic bar fare, with signature wings, sliders, fresh salads and more, along with vegetarian, gluten-free and vegan options. Dishes are named after iconic female athletes to honor their achievements. The beverage menu exclusively features beers, ciders and spirits from female-owned breweries and distilleries.
Guests also will find tributes to women in sports, including the “Trophy Room,” which showcases donated trophies, interactive games and stories of athletes past and present. Striking artwork will highlight trailblazing women, including Phoenix Mercury stars and Arizona icons. The space will feature comfortable seating, a wraparound bar and plenty of screens.
Title 9 Sports Grill, located at 4221 N. 7th Ave., is scheduled to open January 2025. For more information, visit www.title9sportsgrill.com or follow them on social media: @title9sportsgrill.
