ASEP--Coaching Principles

Click on the option that describes how you would handle the situation described on the previous page. Then feel free to click on the other options to see the results of each choice.

What would you do?

Tell Jo that she's needs to start her own women's team.

Give Jo a performance test that will make her think twice about joining the team.

Tell her that football is a tough sport and that it's not safe for her to play on an all-male team.

Evaluate her abilities objectively and include her on the team if she meets the criteria.

Jo is not amused. She believes that she has the right to play on the team and threatens to sue you if you don't give her a fair chance.

Jo completes the test but knows that you are treating her differently than everyone else trying out. She doesn't appreciate your effort to discourage her.

This statement sends the message that males are superior to females. If Jo is willing to accept the risks associated with a contact sport, then you should give her a chance to play.

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in all educational programs and activities that receive federal funds. This law applies to public schools, public and private universities, and government agencies such as city recreation departments.

Because Jo's school doesn't provide a women's team, the coach is obligated to evaluate Jo's abilities without bias and should not give her a specialized performance test designed to discourage her or eliminate her from the team. She might turn out to be a real asset.

If you would like to explore additional coaching issues related to women, visit the Women's Sports Foundation.