Forty-three years ago, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 was signed into law, requiring gender equity in any education program that received federal money. Simply put, it banned sex discrimination in schools.
But the law's effect on women's sports and women in sports can be seen in everything from the advent of the WNBA to a group of little Elsa wannabes playing T-ball in a neighborhood park. And to celebrate its anniversary, we picked nine athletes and moments -- some old, some new -- that probably wouldn't exist without Title IX.
9. Team Freeze
Thanks to Title IX, T-ball doesn't have to be the end of their athletic careers.
8. National Anthem At The Women's College World Series
This patriotic moment is courtesy of rabid softball fans who may not exist if it weren't for Title IX.
7. Selection Monday
March Madness action is doubled thanks to Title IX bolstering the national spotlight for women's college basketball.
6. WNBA
Little girls used to dream of being like Mike. Thanks to the WNBA, they can dream of being like Nneka, Maya and Angel.
5. Women's College World Series
Title IX gave us powerhouse college softball squads that can also deliver a few good photobombs.
4. Mo'ne Davis
She let the world know 70 mph fastballs aren't just for the boys.
3. Becky Hammon
The first full-time female NBA assistant coach, aka #Boss.
2. UConn Women's Basketball Dynasty
The gold standard of excellence in women's college basketball.
1. The 99ers
Title IX gave Brandi Chastain the programs necessary to thrust her -- and her sports bra -- into the international spotlight.