Title IX's impact on high school and college sports is undeniable.

Says Tigerton AD and softball coach Glenda Smith,"I remember when i was a sophomore and we were told we could get letters, like the guys, and that was so cool."

"And the excitement around it, the fact that the girls were going to compete on the same playing field as the guys." adds UWSP Women's Basketball Coach Shirley Egner.

Prior to Title IX, Wisconsin girls high school sports weren't even sanctioned by the WIAA.

"Back then we were sanctioned by the GAA. The Girls Athletics Association, so we played against other schools, but there wasn't that state tournament."

Since 1972, women sports at all levels have grown leaps and bounds, as evidenced by the support of communities and fans state wide.

"The bigger programs sell out their gyms every game. If you build a program of girls sports, it can be just as strong as guys sports." says Merrill Girls Basketball Coach Melissa Yuska.

And with equality, a generation of women becoming highly respected coaches, athletic directors and athletic administrators right here in Wisconsin.

"With the advent of title nine, it opened up ass sorts of doors for women in physical education and coaching." says Marcy Thurwachter, Assistant Director, WIAA.

Adds Egner, "I think every sport needs to continue to grow and young women still need to get opportunities in elementary, through junior high and on to high school."