The Evolution of Women\u27s Intercollegiate Athletics at Oberlin College

Over two years ago, I read an article written in 1973 entitled Sport is Unfair to Women. While researching possible honors topics, I remembered that article. Preliminary research uncovered a wealth of information on women\u27s athletics, Title IX, and the continuing problems faced by female athletes. By sheer coincidence, I learned that Oberlin College was investigated for possible Title IX violations. Further inquiry revealed that little if any research existed concerning the history of Oberlin\u27s young women\u27s athletic program. Before I could say Jack Scott, the topic entranced me, and I remain under its spell to this day. If ever I have experienced love with an academic project, this thesis embodies those feelings. I became fascinated with how the program evolved to its present state. Working with the premise that Title IX provided a subtle impetus behind the growth of the women\u27s athletic program at Oberlin College, I began my research. Many of the law\u27s effects were hidden by the overwhelming personality of Jack Scott, the director of athletics in the early 1970s. Yet, I wanted to trace the major developments in the program to ascertain the causes behind these changes. I wanted to examine Oberlin College\u27s response to a specific gender issue in light of federal legislation and a vocal constituency in favor of women\u27s athletics