Title IX continues to push female athletics into the forefront

Probably the biggest influence for women in sports was created in 1972 with the passing of Title IX of the Educational Amendments. Title IX is the landmark legislation that bans sex discrimination in schools, whether it be in academics or athletics.

Title IX states:

“No person in the US shall, on the basis of sex be excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving federal aid.”

Athletics has created the most controversy regarding Title IX, but its gains in education and academics are notable. Before Title IX, many schools refused to admit women or enforced strict limits.

Why Title IX works!

IN EDUCATION:

ß In 1997, women received 41% of medical degrees, compared with 9% in 1972
ß In 1997, women earned 44% of law degrees, compared with 7% in 1972
ß In 1997, 44% of all doctoral degrees to US citizens went to women, up from 25% in 1977.

IN ATHLETICS:

Title IX has made enormous progress for women and girls in sports.

* In 1972, 1 in 27 high school played varsity sports, compared to 1 in 2.5 in 2006 – an all time high of more than 2.9 million girls are participating
* Prior to Title IX – 32,000 women athletes played on intercollegiate teams compared with 150,000 playing today
* Prior tot Title IX, athletic scholarships were virtually non-existent in 1997 there were more than 10,000 scholarships for women athletes

We made great strides under Title IX – but there is a still long way to go.

New and exciting WinS articles will be published on CVaSports.com as well as the new Women in Sports website, which you can check out at: http://www.winscville.org

Posted by Women In Sports - www.winscville.org on May 27, 2008 1:05 AM | Permalink

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Comments (1)

While Title IX was a great law when it was written, it interpretation in the 1980's has been detrimental to male college athletes. The purpose of the law was to provide opportunities for women but the results were the elimination of hundreds of men's sports. Over 100 division I wrestling teams have been terminated while it remain one of the most popular male sports in high school.

Last year JMU eliminated 6 mens sports teams in the name of Title IX. None of these athletes were on full scholarship and most paid there own way to participate in the sport they love.

Posted by Coach K | May 27, 2008 9:34 AM

Title IX continues to push female athletics into the forefront

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