Prior to the enactment of Title IX, the primary physical activities for girls were cheerleading and dancing. In fact, only 1 girl out of 27 played a high school sport. Since Title IX became law, the tide has changed drastically. Female athletes now have more opportunities to compete at high levels then ever before.
Title IX requires that males and females be provided equitable opportunities to participate in sports. Title IX does not require an institution to offer the same sports for males and females, but rather, requires an institution to provide an equal opportunity to play. With this in mind, Title IX does not require an institution to spend equally on male and female athletics. This is due in large part to the fact that legitimate and justifiable discrepancies for nongender related differences in athletics can be taken into account. For example, a male's football helmet is typically much more expensive than a female soccer player's shin guards. Title IX does, however, require the quality of the equipment to be equitable. On the other hand, for example, female hockey players as well as male hockey players must receive monetarily equitable equipment, so long as the equipment required is the same. Title IX also requires equal treatment in the disbursement of travel allowances, practice time, coaching, facilities, and more.
Female participation in athletics promotes enhanced mental and physical health. Female athletes are less likely to smoke, drink, use drugs, and experience unwanted pregnancies. Research also shows female sport participation decreases the likelihood of developing breast cancer and osteoporosis later in life. Title IX has dramatically increased female athletic participation, and therefore, it is crucial the law stays formidable.
Although the general public most often associates Title IX with athletics, due in large part to discussions in the media, the law applies to every aspect of education. This includes, but is not limited to, course offerings, counseling availability, financial assistance, and physical education.