Short Leash Shuts Down as Title 9 Makes Its Grand Entrance

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 recent announcement, Short Leash Hot Dogs revealed significant news for their followers. After operating for 15 years, Brad and Kat Moore have decided to sell the company they founded from an 80-square-foot food truck. They successfully transitioned to a brick-and-mortar location on 7th Avenue in the Melrose District back in 2018. However, the Melrose location will close its doors on December 21, paving the way for new ownership.

Set to open in January 2025, Title 9 Sports Grill will become the city’s first women-focused sports bar. Inspired by Title IX legislation, this establishment seeks to “elevate women’s sports and create an inclusive community hub that redefines the traditional sports bar experience.”

The new venture is the brainchild of Audrey Corley, founder of Boycott Bar and former college basketball coach, and Kat Moore, a passionate soccer player. Together, they envision a space that celebrates the contributions and successes of women in sports.

Corley and Moore assert that Title 9 Sports Grill aims to be more than just a bar; it intends to drive cultural change. By putting a spotlight on women’s sports, they hope to inspire the Phoenix community and encourage young girls to pursue athletics. Their vision includes a future where female athletes receive equal recognition and support from fans.

Moore stated, “This isn’t just another sports bar; it’s a movement. Phoenix has never seen a space like this, and we’re here to celebrate women’s sports with front-and-center coverage.”

Corley highlighted the unique focus of the bar, saying, “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.”

Title 9 Sports Grill will host women’s sporting events across multiple screens, inviting fans, families, and friends to support their favorite teams. Its menu promises an elevated bar fare experience, featuring signature wings, sliders, and fresh salads, alongside vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options. Notably, dishes will honor iconic female athletes through thoughtful naming.

The beverage menu will prioritize products from female-owned breweries and distilleries, emphasizing support for women in the industry. The establishment will also include tributes such as the “Trophy Room,” showcasing donated trophies, interactive games, and stories of both past and present athletes. Additionally, striking artwork will celebrate female trailblazers, including Phoenix Mercury stars and other Arizona icons.

Title 9 Sports Grill, located at 4221 N. 7th Ave., is set to open in January 2025. For further details, interested individuals can follow their developments on social media under @title9sportsgrill.