Muleskinner

Issue date: 10/12/06 Section: Sports

Getting people to notice women's sports has always been a difficult undertaking.

Stereotypes plague female athletics, especially in the college ranks where male sports tend generate more revenue.

But the University of Central Missouri is prepared to turn the spotlight towards the history of women's athletics during this year's Homecoming celebration.

The celebration of women's athletics is intended to recognize former female athletes and coaches at UCM, particularly those who played before the early 1970's and were not awarded or recognized for their achievements.

"[Before the early 70's], the university didn't recognize women's sports," said UCM Associate Athletic Director Kathy Anderson. "This will be an opportunity for those pioneers of women's sports at this university to be recognized. We want to honor those who laid the foundation."

The University will honor those pioneers by awarding them "C's", the athletic letter that was formerly only given to men.
The letters will be given at a banquet following the Homecoming game against Southwest Baptist on Saturday.

Kathy Holwick, who participated in volleyball, golf and track at UCM in the late 60's and early 70's, is one of more than 200 athletic participants who plan to attend the celebration.

"We put in the same time and effort as the men, and I am pleased that this fact will be acknowledged," Holwick told the Kansas City Star.

"Back then, we made the best of the situation and played for the love of the game."

The idea to recognize these athletes came from UCM's volleyball coach Peggy Martin.

Martin told the Star that she wanted current UCM athletes to recognize how good they have it because of the female pioneers who paved the path for them.

UCM women competed mostly in intramural sports that were not usually supported by the University because there was little funding for their sports and records or scores at the events were not usually kept.

Anderson, who played basketball, softball and track in the late 70's, said that anyone who competed in these sports at UCM is eligible to receive a "C", regardless of their level of performance in the sport.

Festivities for the celebration will begin on Friday with a Welcome Reception in the Elliot Union.

Among other activities on Saturday, the celebration participants have been invited to walk in the Homecoming parade and be introduced at halftime of the Mules football game.

"These events are meant to be a great time," Anderson said.
"It will be a time to tell old stories and honor those who showed society that women could play sports too."

Currently, UCM is host to many women's sports including basketball, bowling, soccer, softball, volleyball, cross country and track and field.



Calendar of Events

Friday
Welcome reception, 6 p.m., University Union

Saturday
Continental breakfast, 8 a.m., Smiser Alumni House
Homecoming parade, 8:30 a.m.
Alumni Lunch, 11:30 a.m.
Homecoming football game, 1:30 p.m., Walton Stadium
Banquet, 6 p.m.

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