If you are interested to learn more about women in sports, this is the place for you. This article highlights women who have made history in sports, from Michele Roberts leading the NFL's coaching staff to Simone Manuel winning seven world championship medals. In addition, this article explores the history of Title IX, the Education Act of 1972 that opened doors for women athletes, as well as other notable firsts in women's sports.
Title IX of the Education Act of 1972 opened opportunities for women athletes
Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments prohibited discrimination based on sex in federally funded educational institutions. The goal was to combat biases against female students. Although few schools were able to follow the guidelines quickly, the act represented a major step toward equal participation for all women.
Today, more than half of college students are female. However, women's participation is just now catching up to men in intercollegiate sport. Up until 2005-2006 women weren't able to match the participation of men in college sport. Since then, women's participation has increased dramatically. Over 3.4 million high school girls take part in athletics. More than 215,000 women play at collegiate levels. Title IX allows women athletes to compete in more sports.
Simone Manuel became the first woman to win seven medals at a single world championship
The U.S. women's swimming team was in the spotlight last month when Simone Manuel became the first Black woman to win a world championship. Manuel has been a major force in the sport, and she helped Team USA capture a bronze medal in the 400 meter freestyle relay. She is an ambassador for USA Swimming Foundation, and advocates increased diversity in the sport.
Manuel's World Championships success was especially remarkable because she broke several records. She won the 50 meter freestyle and the 100 meter freestyle events, earning seven medals overall and participating in two world-record-breaking relays. Manuel recently disclosed that she had been suffering from overtraining Syndrome, which results in an overheated heartbeat, sore muscles, and a lack of success. Manuel sought advice from her doctor, and she stopped swimming for three consecutive weeks.
Michele Roberts became the first woman to lead a major professional sports union
Michele Roberts became the first woman leader of a major professional sporting union. At the time she applied, she was considered a long shot. She didn't have much experience in labor relationships and she had no sports background. However, her legal background gave her an advantage.
Roberts was first elected to her post by the NBPA's executive board in 2014. Roberts spent her time in Washington, D.C., working as a trial lawyers. She is a specialist in complex civil litigation, white collared criminal cases, or administrative proceedings. Roberts is a fellow of American College of Trial Lawyers. She lectures often on topics related to litigation and trials around the country.
Jen Welter became the first woman to serve on an NFL coaching staff
Jen Welter is a former running back for the Texas Revolution and is now the special teams coach for the Arizona Cardinals. She is also the first women to coach in a men's professional football league. Welter's goal is to promote football among women. After her playing career ended, Welter established camps for girls as well as women, including the GRRRidiron Fight Football Camp. She has also launched a program for young people in underserved communities.
Welter, while she was not looking to be the first woman coach in the NFL's history, was already well on her road. Arians is an American, and he has made clear that women are welcomed on NFL coaching staffs. Welter is an outstanding coach and has won the respect and trust of her colleagues. She is an excellent example of a coach who values authenticity and teamwork.