Title IX

Without trying to sound to sexist and as far as athletics goes, has Title IX been a good amendment? Dont get me wrong, I am all for women having the opportunity to participate in athletics. I played college hockey at the club level and we had several women join the mens team up until 2 years ago when we had enough women interested in playing that we were able to start our own women's hockey club. The "interest" is really what I would like to look at. Why cut certain men's programs just so that the school can be in compliance with an amendment according to enrollment and gender? Why not have money in the budget for the teams already in existence? If there is enough "interest" in a particular sport for any gender, then we can go back and rework the budget to start a team. These teams do not have to become NCAA sports because I am well aware of the type of funding this would need. If you have the dedication and a few people interested enough in starting a program, it can be done!

Politicians and Physical Education

Over the past 20-30 years, physical education has gone from just that to "gym" class. To a lot of kids, phys ed class isnt that bad and something they actually look forward to, but for many other students, they dread the time of day when they have to go to this class. Many administrators are trying to move away from making phys ed class mandatory. Whenever schools have to make a budget cut, phys ed class as well as other activities are the first to go! Recently, politicians have been coming up with different rules and regulations that require a certain amount of physical activity during the school day. For all future phys ed teachers this is great, right? In a way I would love to think so but at the same time, could it be hurting the profession? Requiring physical activity doesnt necessarily mean that phys ed classes will be safe. The school could start implementing some type of physical activity all throughout the day which could take the place of phys ed class altogether! I would love to see the requirement of physical activity during the day but not at the expense of phys ed class!

On Campus Parking

First of all, is it not a bit ridiculous that it costs a commuter $25 just to have the opportunity to park on campus? By parking "on campus", I mean within reasonable walking distance. Some parking lots are certain to give you a 15 minute walk to class and thats even after you've waited for 15 minutes just to get the spot. Sometimes I leave my house an extra half hour early just so that I can get to school to be able to wait for a good parking spot. Now dont get me wrong, I feel that its even more ridiculous that someone who lives on campus has to pay for parking as well. Isnt enough that tution and other fees increase on a yearly basis? Having the ability to park on campus shouldnt be an extra expense!

Helmet to Helmet Hits

This post is not only about the devastating hits that have been delivered during NFL games as of late but also the lasting effects that they have on the brain! Research has clearly shown that concussions and any type of post-concussion symptoms can be detremental in growth and a healthy lifestyle in the future. What exactly is the NFL doing to try and prevent this from happening with such regularity? Maybe an even better question would be what can be done? Today's modern athlete is faster, smarter, and stronger making a deadly combination for lethal hits!