ABSTRACT Title of Dissertation
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ABSTRACT Title of Dissertation: A BIOGRAPHICAL INTERPRETATION OF WOMEN’S JOURNEYS THROUGH ATHLETIC LEADERSHIP: PRE AND POST TITLE IX LEGISLATION Marlene Louise K elly, Doctor of Philosophy, 2004 Dissertation Directed by: Dr. Francine H. Hultgren Education Policy and Leadership This study explores the life experiences of four women athletic leaders, in four Decades (1960s-1990s), as they traveled through careers in athletic leadership, pre and post Title IX passage, in 1972. The study covers the lives of these women from childhood to their adult years. Through the methodology of interpretive biography, the research investigates the lives of these four women coaches to bring to light the experiential and societal issues that have impacted their journeys. A narrative based on in dividual conversations with each participant and written reflections of the researcher provides insight into these women’s coaching experiences. Denzin’s methodology for in interpretive biography served as the framework for the study. The use of personal histories, as the basis for research in order to share and extend knowledge, is the keystone of this methodology. The major themes that come through in the life stories are centered around the support of family, the importance of role models, the imp act of training, the ability to develop a personal philosophy of coaching, the importance of mentoring, and the coping skills that these women use to handle the stress. Although the journeys of these four women are varied, these characteristics were interw oven in each of their stories. Implications and recommendations for future women coaches entering the athletic leadership field center around the process of leadership development, rather than just the end result of being a coach. Women coaches need to be supported in their developmental years. Successful women coaches need to be a role model for novice coaches and mentor them through the life long journey. Extensive training and knowledge develops confidence in novice coaches and supports their goal to be successful. Although Title IX was the time anchor for this study, the last thirty years have not made the journey for women in athletics an easier course to travel. Obstacles remain the same, and challenges still require individual soluti ons. Additional studies on gender differences in coaching and coaching philosophy are recommended. A BIOGRAPHICAL INTERPRETATION OF WOMEN’S JOURNEYS THROUGH ATHLETIC LEADERSHIP: PRE AND POST TITLE IX LEGISLATION by Marlene L. Kelly Dissertation submitted to the Faculty of the Graduate School of the University of Maryland, College Park, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy 2004 Advisory Committee: Dr. Francine Hultgren, Advisor and Chair Dr. David Andrews Dr. Timothy Dangel Dr. Carol Parham Dr. Thomas Rhoades Dr. Steven Selden Copyright by Marlene L. Kelly 2004 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS As I began this journey to extend my knowledge by writing this dissertation, the process, and the task, seemed to be unceasing. But somehow, the time elapsed quickly as the project became more intensive, and more demanding of time and energy. As I come to the end of my journey, I realize that I did not take this journey alone. There were many individuals who guided, encouraged, and contributed to the depth of this research. A special thank you is extended to Dr. Francine Hultgren, my dissertation advisor. Her talent as a teacher was reflected in the patience and understanding that she exhibited throughout this process. With her guidance, this research was brought to life. I am grateful for the support of my dissertation committee. The interest they displayed in my research, and their recognition of the passion that I have for the subject matter, was a motivating factor for me in the long process. I value their input and appreciate their expertise. My deepest appreciation is extended to the four women that were the substance of my dissertation. Their dedication to student athletes, as well as fellow coaches, is to be commended. Each woman voiced her commitment to keeping women coaches in coaching. Their passion was contagious. Finally, my deepest a ppreciation is extended to my children and my husband. The children, now young adults, understood during their formative years, the importance of teaching and athletics in my life. They gave me the pleasure of being their mother, and they put up with me being their coach. It is not easy task to be the son or daughter of a coach. I know that I always received many more benefits than they did in either role. And to my husband, who for thirty years has been my biggest supporter, I am forever grateful. When I was a college athlete, he sat in the stands and cheered me on and watched me play. When I was a coach, he attended every one of my games, understanding my passion and reinforcing my goals. And, when I decided to pursue my doctorate, he was again by my side offering encouragement and support. The gratitude and love that I have for him cannot be expressed in words. TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION ................................................................. 1 Context of the Study .......................................................................... 1 Purpose of the Study ............................................................. 3 Research Questions................................................................ 3 Methodology for the Research ............................................... 4 My Personal Journey as a Context for Athletic Choices .................. 5 Beginnings ............................................................................. 6 The Importance of Self Image ............................................... 8 The Introduction of Mentors ................................................. 9 Entrance into Athletic Leadership ........................................ 11 Tracing Historical Conceptions of Women Impacting Opportunities fo r Their Participation in Sports ..................................................... 15 Foundation in the Greek Era ................................................. 16 Foundations in the Medieval Period ..................................... 18 Foundations in the Victorian Era .......................................... 18 Foundations in the Twentieth Century .................................. 19 Gender Barriers are Challenged: Feminism’s Influence .................... 25 The Abilit y to Change Attitudes ........................................... 25 A Woman’s Career Choices in Athletic Leadership ............. 27 Title IX: The Two Edged Sword .......................................... 34 Importance of the Research .............................................................. 38 Organization of the Journey .............................................................. 40 Chapter 2: REVIEW OF LITERATURE .............................................. 42 A Diverse Journey ............................................................................. 42 Mapping out the Trip ............................................................ 43 Behavioral Traits Affect the Trip .......................................... 47 Title IX: Barrier or Expressway? ...................................................... 50 Challenges to Title IX ........................................................... 50 Societal Norms Impact Title IX ............................................. 52 Journey Conditions ........................................................................... 55 Opportunities Increase: Women Coaches Decrease ............. 55 Training Opportunities .......................................................... 57 Having a Co -pilot .............................................................................. 60 Contributions that Mentors Make ......................................... 60 Providing Links Through Networking .................................. 64 Chapter 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND DESIGN .............. 69 Research Methodology of Interpretive Biography ........................... 70 Foundations of Biographical Methodology .......................... 71 A Dialogue Between the Subject and the Researcher ........... 73 Design of the Study ........................................................................... 76 Participant Selection ............................................................. 77 Method of Gathering Narratives ........................................... 78 Analysis ................................................................................. 80 Veracity ................................................................................. 82 Chapter 4: THE TALE OF FOUR DECADES ...................................... 84 Individual Experiences Determine the Path of the Journey ............... 84 The Decade of the Sixties ................................................................. 85 Meet Ann .............................................................................. 86 Family Provides Initial Support ............................................ 87 The Support Extends ............................................................. 88 Establishing a Style ............................................................... 89 Training Opportunities .......................................................... 90 Men and Women Coach Differently ..................................... 91 Men Coaching Girls’ Teams and Women Coaching Girls’ Teams ................................................................................