Written by Barbara Adams
A Legacy of Three Generations of Volleyballers
Having three generations of our family play volleyball for Arkansas Tech is a true honor. The tradition started with myself, followed by my daughter Nikki, and now continues with my granddaughter Daylee. The women's volleyball program at this institution has significantly shaped our lives. It fills me with immense pride to see our family's legacy intertwined with such a remarkable school. The joy is immeasurable when I think about our ongoing contribution to the legacy of Arkansas Tech and its women's volleyball program.
Envision a legacy spanning three generations. When I joined Tech as the first-generation volleyball player in the fall of 1970, I couldn't have imagined that my journey would extend through two more generations. We have three generations of volleyball players from Tech, each with their own unique yet somehow interconnected stories.
Nikki and Daylee will share their narratives in time. Here is mine.
During my time at Arkansas Polytechnic College (now known as Arkansas Tech University) from 1969 to 1973, the scope of women's sports was quite limited, offering only three sports and no scholarships. Nevertheless, we managed to succeed through sheer perseverance and commitment. The efforts of previous generations have paved the way for today's female athletes, who now have more opportunities than ever.
As a former collegiate athlete, it's heartening to see the growth of women's sports following the implementation of Title IX legislation. Before Title IX, there were approximately 30,000 women participating in intercollegiate sports. That figure has now soared to a remarkable 219,000, reflecting the hard work of female athletes and the importance of providing equal opportunities in sports.
In 1972-1973, we, the Wonderettes, decided to leave a lasting mark on women's sports at Arkansas Tech with the advent of Title IX. We determined that a new name symbolizing our strength and resolve was essential. Consequently, the team members voted to change our name.
The name Golden Suns was chosen to symbolize our unity, resilience, and determination. Shortly after, the University officially adopted this name. It has since gained significant recognition across Arkansas and elsewhere.
As athletes, we've faced numerous challenges and obstacles, yet we've persevered. I remember one basketball game where we had to resort to unconventional methods to reach the court. I used my parents' car, and other team members offered their vehicles, ensuring we all arrived. Despite the disparity in treatment compared to the men's teams on campus, we were determined to accomplish our goals, continuing the legacy of women before us. The journey towards equity is arduous and demanding, but ultimately rewarding.
In my first year of 1969, the women from Tech significantly impacted women's sports by being the first to compete against other colleges. Before this, the schedule consisted of matches with teams across the state and beyond in the AAU. This progress led to the creation of the Arkansas Women's Extramural Sports Association and subsequently, the Arkansas Women's Intercollegiate Sports Association. In 1983, the AIC officially recognized women's teams, changing the face of women's sports in Arkansas forever. I take pride in having contributed to this landmark achievement and am fully cognizant of its lasting impact on female athletes. I recognize the importance of persistently advocating for equal opportunities in sports.
The official support of female teams by the AIC brought a smile to my face, reminding me of my efforts to provide women with equal opportunities in sports.
Since starting in 1969, the Arkansas Tech University women's athletics program has experienced significant growth and change. Reflecting on the early days of my athletic journey at ATU, I remember the old women's gym, which now serves as the ATU Techionery. It was a small, confined space housing the coach's office, a locker room with bare concrete floors and walls, and old-fashioned metal lockers. The playing court was encased in brick walls close to the out-of-bounds lines, leaving little space for fans.
Despite the area's limitations, we succeeded in making it functional and creating enduring memories. I fondly remember attending a contemporary dance class in the second-level classroom!
Pat Gordon served as our volleyball coach, and her contributions to women's athletics have been substantial. She has imparted wisdom to countless female athletes, helping them to become confident competitors and trailblazers. Her passion for the game was infectious and served as an inspiration to all who had the fortune to know her.
During my final year at Tech in 1972-73, I had the chance to play basketball and volleyball in the new Hull building. The Wonderettes team was ecstatic to experience the remarkable facility and its vibrant atmosphere. Though Tucker Coliseum later became the primary stadium, the Hull building retains a cherished spot in our hearts.
As a female athlete at Arkansas Tech University, I took pride in contributing to a legacy that shattered barriers and established a groundwork for the coming generations. Being part of the storied tradition of women's sports at our university was a true honor.
My tenure at Arkansas Polytechnic College was a memorable adventure filled with extraordinary individuals and transformative experiences. Articulating the full extent of my memories of resilience, teamwork, and the growth of women's sports is challenging, yet I am keen to share these stories with all.
My Coaching Career: Accounts of Title IX Experiences
1. As a substitute physical education teacher at Russellville High School in 1974, I encountered a school district without the funds for girls' athletics, leading to a cessation of girls' sports since around 1965. Having personally faced this absence of opportunity from ninth through twelfth grade, I returned as a teacher to find the girls eager for a program. Together with a colleague, we engaged the administration and discussed with the principal the initiation of a girls' basketball program, citing Title IX. This led to the start of an intramural program during lunch hours. The overwhelming student interest prompted the district to establish an athletic program the following year, making history.
2. While coaching at Dardanelle, I experienced unequal pay. In my second year, a school board member alerted me to the pay gap between myself and a male coach. I acted promptly, filing the required Title IX documents with the administration. The next day brought news of a contract revision doubling my salary, which I eagerly signed. This triumph is a cherished memory.
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