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NGWSD 2003

Spotlight on Tracey Vause Earland '81

 

Q: What led or motivated you to play sports?

A: I've always loved any kind of movement - running, jumping, dancing - anything that provided a physical outlet, a means of expression. As a child I was blessed with coordination, speed, and most of all, enthusiasm. I loved playing neighborhood games, competing against the boys, just having fun within the context of physical activity. My parents both enjoyed sports in high school, but they never pressured me to participate in sports at school. (Back then we didn't have organized community teams like today). At a young age, I knew I was " pretty good" at sports and I received a lot of praise and encouragement from classmates and family. Each semester in Upper school I participated in a sport - swimming, field hockey, volleyball, and my love, Lacrosse. This was the sport I continued throughout my college years.

Q: What did it mean to you when Title IX was passed?

A: Honestly, I don't remember the institution of Title IX as a freshman in college. I knew it existed, but I didn't fully understand how it would impact women's sports. I took a lot of things for granted, I suppose. It was only fair that women sports received financial support as the men. I obviously wasn't tuned into the "big picture" regarding the consequences Title IX had on less popular male sport teams. Thinking back 20 plus years ago, I remember feeling very special and proud to represent Penn during sports outings. It was great to have allowance for meals and stay in hotels (low budget, of course), thanks to Title IX. We had talented coaches, equipment, spring training camps, etc., all of this because of Title IX.

Q: When did you realize the importance of what you were a part of, being in the beginning Title IX era?

A: Today I realize how important it was to have Title IX in place. Women's involvement in sports is essential for a number of reasons. Without this opportunity, we could not develop the team-building skills, discipline, work ethic, physical stamina, and competing attitude that are required in the working world. Most importantly, being involved in formalize sports during my post adolescent years, allowed me to integrate a routine of physical fitness that continues with me to this day. I no longer play lacrosse (except on the beach with my two sons), but I continue to stay physically active and appreciate the importance of fitness and sports participation.

Q: What was the most memorable experience for you?

A: Two experiences come to mind. The first time our team (Penn's Lacrosse) beat West Chester University, our local rival, and when we played University of Maryland in the semi-final round of the NCAA Lacrosse tournament. We lost - it was close. But who would have ever thought University of Penn could compete at this level.

I suppose the most memorable experience was being chosen for the United States Women's Lacrosse Team in 1980-81 season. This was a long-term goal/dream I made myself back in 8th grade as I watched the US team practice at my high school one afternoon. I loved this sport and I wanted to be a part of it.

Q: In your opinion, what was the most gratifying moment in women's sports in general?

A: Looking back, the most gratifying moment has got to be the implementation of Title IX. Where would women's sports be today? Title IX has allowed the "everyday gal" the opportunity to be apart of a sports program that supports and values their involvement.

Q: Even with women's pro sports becoming so popular in America, women's sports still do not garner the same attention as men's sports. Aside from the lack of media coverage, what responsibility should athletes and women in general have to the growth of women's sports in America?

A: Like everything, it starts young. Encouraging young girls to play sports and show them your enthusiasm and support (emotionally and financially) needed to stay involved. We need to attend local high school games and contribute to fund-raisers. I believe it starts at a grassroots level. This generation of young ladies has so much more opportunity to participate than years past. I believe this grassroots approach will result in the growth of women's sports in America. It is also our responsibility to stay on top of our colleges to ensure they are implementing Title IX correctly. I understand some colleges are not conducting business within the framework of Title IX. Alumnae must be aware of this and take action.

Q: What is your hope for the future of women's sports?

A: That one day it receives the recognition from the media that it deserves. Media is so much apart of our lives. It's important for young women to see the competition, discipline, team playing and enjoyment that our college level and professional female athletes experience.