Tony Bittle, a senior library specialist at SIU Carbondale’s Morris Library, and Anne Marie Hamilton-Brehm, associate dean of library affairs, highlight memorabilia from the SIU Women’s Rugby Club as part of the “With You” exhibition on women in sports. (Photo by Russell Bailey; rugby team photo provided)
April 25, 2025
Celebrating 50 Years of Women’s Sports at SIU
CARBONDALE, Ill. — An enlightening exhibition at Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Morris Library is dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women in sports over the past 50 years. The exhibition, titled “With You,” will be showcased in the Hall of Presidents and Chancellors until June, featuring the SIU Women’s Rugby Club and pioneering female boxers.
Understanding the Impact of Title IX
The exhibition delves into the profound effects of Title IX legislation, enacted in 1972, on women’s sports. Anne Marie Hamilton-Brehm, associate dean of library affairs, emphasized how the exhibition illustrates the significant accomplishments of women in athletics. A reception scheduled on May 2 from 1 to 4 p.m. will feature a Q&A session with prominent alumnae, including Britt VanBuskirk and Renee Flottman, who were among the first female rugby players at SIU.
Expert Insights and Historical Context
Bobbi Knapp, an associate professor of sport studies, will provide insights into the history of women’s athletics at SIU and the ongoing impact of Title IX and the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women, which existed from 1971 to 1983. “Title IX made a huge impact on girls’ and women’s opportunities in sports and in academics,” Knapp stated, underscoring the activism of women across generations who have sought greater opportunities in athletics.
Highlighting Artifacts and Personal Narratives
The “With You” exhibition boasts a collection of artifacts and memorabilia, including uniforms and trophies from various eras of the SIU Women’s Rugby Club, spanning from the 1980s to the 2000s. Visitors can also explore a selection of books on Title IX and women boxers, plus a photo slideshow celebrating early rugby players’ contributions to the sport.
Both Flottman and VanBuskirk have played integral roles in designing the exhibition, reconnecting through shared experiences as teammates in the early SIU female rugby teams during the 1980s. Flottman expressed gratitude for the chance to reunite with former teammates and reflect on their collective journey through sports.
The Legacy of Female Athletes
VanBuskirk, known for her 25-year career in boxing, was California’s first female welterweight champion in 1979 and is a proud inductee of the Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame. She remarked on the necessity of acknowledging the historical struggles female athletes faced in a male-dominated environment. “We are honored to be asked to tell our stories,” Flottman noted, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the progress made in women’s sports.
Continuing the Journey of Gender Equity in Sports
Today, the SIU Women’s Rugby Club remains an active participant in collegiate sports. Efforts are underway to honor trailblazers in women’s athletics, led by Knapp and Julie Partridge, who are pursuing recognition for Dorothy Davies Hall as a culturally significant landmark. Knapp is focused on documenting the legacy of women’s sports pioneers at SIU, highlighting how these initiatives shape the future landscape for female athletes.
Conclusion
The celebration of women in sports continues, embodying the spirit of resilience and dedication that has characterized the journey for female athletes. The “With You” exhibition serves not only as a tribute but as a reminder of the ongoing pursuit of equity in athletics.
(Editor’s note: Bobbi Knapp’s last name is pronounced nap.)
