Copyright 2002 Journal Sentinel Inc.  
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Wisconsin)
October 24, 2002 Thursday FINAL EDITION
SECTION: SPORTS; Pg. 02C

LENGTH: 202 words

HEADLINE: More enforcement of Title IX urged

BYLINE: From Journal Sentinel wire reports

BODY:
Members of a special commission of the U.S. secretary of education said Wednesday that more needs to be done to enforce compliance with a federal law requiring gender equity in school sports.

While no formal recommendation was made, some members of Education Secretary Rod Paige's Commission on Opportunity in Athletics noted that many colleges and universities do not comply with the requirements of Title IX, limiting its impact.

"Enforcement is a huge concern. In 30 years, no one has ever lost their funding and there are many schools that are not in compliance," said commission co-chair Cynthia Cooper, a former WNBA all-star.

The 1972 law requires schools that receive federal money to provide equal athletic opportunities for men and women. Since it took effect, the number of girls playing high school and college sports has grown sharply, as have budgets for women's athletic programs.

The 15-member commission, formed in June, is charged with looking for ways to improve Title IX. On Wednesday, the panel closed a two-day public hearing in Colorado Springs, Colo., the third of four meetings held across the nation.

Commissioners will submit recommendations to Paige by Jan. 31.

LOAD-DATE: October 24, 2002