Many schools blame the size and cost of football for their unbalanced programs. But courts say that's no excuse, and a few colleges nationally are proving the others wrong. Pressure to close the gender gap is building as girls flock to youth sports by the millions. They're backed by courts that consistently side with women athletes. Youth shut out of sports miss crucial lessons in teamwork, performing under pressure, and persevering after a loss, experts say.
Studies show girls who grow up physically active have more self-esteem and less depression.
They make better grades, avoid drugs and stay active as adults. Gaping inequities Inequities, big and small, exist at every kind of college. At Duke, one of the nation's most prestigious schools, women last year made up 49 percent of students but just 34 percent of athletes. Overall, Winston-Salem State offers the Carolinas' most unbalanced sports program. Women at Winthrop comprise 68 percent of students, but men still get more than half the sports dollars.