February 1, 2017. This day, for some, was filled with anticipation for the beginning of a new month and for others it was just another Wednesday. Feb. 1 was the 31st annual recognition of National Girls and Women in Sports Day. This day serves as an opportunity to place special recognition on the progress and ongoing effort to advance sport opportunities for women. This year’s theme was “Expanding Opportunity.”
Title IX, signed into law in 1972, was the first step toward more equal opportunity for women in sports. According to the Department of Justice, “Title IX is a comprehensive federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any federally funded education program or activity.” The Women’s Sports Foundation recognizes the impact of Title IX legislation but notes that only 40 percent of high school girls are currently playing sports and only 40 percent of collegiate athletes are women.
Physical education chair Ms. Geraldine Albins, and physical education professor Ms. Tena Krause shared their experiences as female athletes competing prior to the enactment of Title IX. Albins shared stories about the ridicule she felt from the community and society for her interest in athletics, which came with name calling and spitting. Albins recalls the moment Title IX was passed, “I remember cheering and crying and jumping because we thought the whole world would be wonderful but it wasn’t because you had to change attitudes. The law doesn’t change attitudes.”
Krause detailed the struggle to find playing opportunities and the commitment that was required to continue, including driving far distances to find others to practice and play with. She also discussed the inequality that she faced as a coach, which included a lower season budget and limited practice times. She was required to speak up to ensure her athletes were given the best chance at success. “I wasn’t fighting for me, I was fighting for my ladies to have it better than how I had it.”
Although progress may not seem as evident at Blackburn, where there is only one female head coach employed, Albins and Krause are proud of the opportunities that have come since their days as female athletes.
The question remains: What can individuals do to ensure that equality in women’s sports remains an important issue? Albins calls for equal and appropriate publicity for women’s athletic programs. Krause challenges us to push for fairness and to not remain silent.
Society has conditioned most to use terms and hold beliefs about girls and women in sports that negatively impact progress. Speaking up against labels that you feel are unfair and for chances can help propel female athletes forward. National Girls and Women in Sports Day is just one opportunity to discuss equality in sports but is fundamental in continuing the conversation.