Women’s college sports have always been just as important as the men’s side. Female athletes go to the same practices, endure the same type of training, and have to balance schoolwork with rigorous game schedules. Female athletes must worry about school, family, friends, game performance, training abilities, and a million other things on their plate.
But the attention, and funding, has always been directed towards the male teams in the collegiate programs. Men’s football and basketball are the “big money makers”, so they get the most fans, publicity, and funding.
However, the tide is turning.
Caitlin Clark and Women’s Basketball Turned a New Leaf
That championship celebration hits different.#NationalChampionship x @LSUwbkb pic.twitter.com/h29TM76YKJ
— NCAA Women's Final Four (@WFinalFour) April 2, 2023
We’ve said it all along – women’s college sports just needs a platform.
The Women’s NCAA Final Four tournament had higher TV ratings than the same competition on the men’s side. People on social media, specifically Instagram and TikTok, have seen dozens of videos of Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and other basketball stars sinking free throws and hitting three’s.
The publicity and attention that women’s college basketball has earned, rightly so, over the past few months can be the game changer for women’s sports.
One of the big differences is the media attention and social media influence on the game. In the past, women’s sports have broken records, gained attention, and attracted loyal followers. But after one big tournament, the TV stations and media outlets return to solely covering men’s sports.
Now, there is no denying just how much people enjoy watching women’s sports. Fans, journalists, coaches, players, and researchers are all thinking that the viewership of this tournament can change the path for viewership, promotion, and investments in the future.
Activism in Women’s College Sports
Activism has gone hand in hand with women’s sports. It has been put in place to get equal treatment as the men’s team, even oftentimes doing more and doing better.
For example, the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team sued the U.S. Soccer Federation for gender discrimination and equal pay. They had been performing at a consistently high level for decades, winning Olympic gold medals and World Cup trophies. However, the men’s team was always paid more for subpar performances.
Similarly, the world got to see the differences in the weight room equipment at the prestigious NCAA women’s and men’s basketball tournament in 2021.
College athletes, and professional athletes, who stand up, demand change, and play incredibly well at their sport can bring in a new era for women’s sports. People want to see elite female athletes on the highest stage.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
