Gender equity in NCAA leadership: have we made progress?

Women are significantly underrepresented at the Athletic Director position within the NCAA, despite longstanding calls for increased inclusion. This research explores the experiences of five high-ranking women in the NCAA through individual interviews to understand two things: the types of gender inequity they faced, and how it shaped their career progression. All women claimed it had not affected their careers, but analysis of the findings revealed widespread gender inequity, microaggressions, tokenism, and misogyny. This supports the notion that hegemonic masculinity and homosocial reproduction are deeply engrained in athletics and have not changed despite policy-based efforts. Female success in these environments may have more to do with the traits of the woman than the policies aimed at supporting them. Addressing this imbalance requires more than policy changes; it demands a shift in societal norms. There is a unique opportunity for change due to the increasing value and visibility of women's sports.