The purpose of this study is to document the origin and development of competitive athletics for women at Indiana University-Bloomington from 1965-2001. The time period of examination was selected to address the era of transition from extramural sports to varsity athletics with particular emphasis on the affect of Title IX on the status of women's athletics at Indiana University. An additional objective is to ascertain influential coaches, administrators, and other individuals associated with the growth of women's athletics and identify their role in the evolution of women's sport at the University.

Research findings indicated that the varsity athletics program for women evolved out of the extramural sport program in the Department of Physical Education for Women (DPEW). As the primary mission of the school was education, the program was limited by the availability of funding and facilities. Coaches of women's teams were typically faculty members in the DPEW. Athletes shared uniforms, practiced at odd hours, and paid for travel to away games. After Title IX of the Educational Amendments became law in 1972, it was determined that women's athletics should be housed in the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics with their male counterparts.

After moving into the Athletics Department in 1974, the budget for women's athletics expanded three fold. Women athletes were privy to many of the same benefits as their male counterparts. During the 1980's, the position of women in the Athletics Department improved. However, due to budget constraints and a lack of adequate facilities, the university elected to eliminate women's gymnastics and field hockey. Following the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1988, the university was required to expand program offerings for women. Women's soccer was elevated from club to varsity status in 1989.

Women's athletics maturing during the 1990's at Indiana University. In order to abide by Title IX requirements, the university continued to expand the varsity program for women. Water Polo, Crew, and Field Hockey were added as varsity sports for women. While a true level of equity has yet to be reached, the university continues to work towards increasing funding for women's programs.