NCAA Committee Recommends Informational Approach to Combat Pregnancy Discrimination

The NCAA's Committee on Women's Athletics examined the trend of discrimination against pregnant and student athletes, and has recommended that the NCAA adopt an informational strategy rather than a regulatory one to combat this practice, which is unlawful under Title IX.

NCAA Bylaws already state that athletic scholarships and financial aid can only be reduced or canceled if the athlete "becomes academically ineligible; voluntarily withdraws from the sport for personal reasons; fraudulently misrepresents information on an application, letter of intent or financial aid agreement; or engages in serious misconduct."

The Committee has decided to develop an informational "toolkit" to help pregnant athletes understand their rights and it urges NCAA member institutes to examine their own policies for compliance with Title IX.