Title IX a big factor in colleges’ decisions

Financially challenged schools considering cutting sports in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic are making difficult decisions of who gets to keep playing and who doesn’t.

The choices aren’t just about money when they involve women’s sports. And while Title IX doesn’t prevent women’s sports from being eliminated, the federal law is a huge part of the conversations.

The civil-rights law, which applies to each gender, is credited with expanding women’s opportunities and participation in sports.

Established in 1972, Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any education program or activity receiving federal funds, such as student financial aid. It applies to sports by ensuring men and women have equitable participation opportunities, as well as access to scholarships.

Schools are reviewing guidelines with college athletics facing an uncertain financial future — including big-budget programs that rely on football as the revenue driver through lucrative TV deals and the ability to fund lower-profile sports. There was also the hit from the cancellation of the NCAA basketball tournament, which meant far less money distributed to Division I schools.

Old Dominion said in early April it would discontinue wrestling, saving about $1 million. The school said that decision followed a sixmonth outside study of its athletics program that included Title IX compliance considerations.

Later that month, Cincinnati eliminated a men’s soccer program in existence since 1973.

Furman cut baseball and men’s lacrosse, while East Carolina eliminated four sports — men’s and women’s swimming and diving, men’s and women’s tennis — in a plan to save $4.9 million.