Despite the many achievements of women in sports over the years, sexism still exists. In January, Scottish sports commentator, Andy Gray’s multi–million dollar contract was terminated because he made sexist comments about a female official.
The issue also extends to collegiate sports, which led to the development of legislation such as Title IX, which requires equal funding for male and female athletes including scholarship distribution.
NSU operates under Title IX standards. Dani Millan, sophomore softball player said she hasn’t experienced sexism while playing at NSU, but she said she has seen it when she’s played coed sports.
Paola Ruiz, senior volleyball player, said, “There is always this ‘boys are better athletes than girls’ thing in the sports world but never have I felt that because I’m a woman I’ve been treated differently here in college. I think the NCAA has really tried to erase sexism from college athletics.”
However, Ruiz said she believed high school athletics isn’t as accommodating as the collegiate level when it comes to gender equity.
“In high school, though, you feel that because you’re in a female sport you’re treated with less importance. For example, I play volleyball and the treatment of me versus a football player will be different,” she said.
LeAnn Freeland, head women’s basketball coach said she has witnessed sexism in the past.
“When sexism rears its ugly head in sports today, I believe it is a result of ignorance,” said Freeland.
Mike Goodrich, women’s soccer head coach, believes sexism in sports is a worldwide issue.
“Legislation, specifically Title IX has made a huge impact in women’s sports here in the U.S. in creating opportunities for women. With that said, athletics are still a reflection of society so there is no doubt that while it has improved in the last twenty years it still exists,” said Goodrich.
Ruiz, said, “It’s not all equal, because of society and some limitations females still face, but I think women prove themselves every day. This goes beyond just sports, it has to be a change of mentality for society as a whole.”
