The Law & Education: Episode 62: Title IX and Athletics: Equipping & Empowering Coaches, Parents, and Athletes with Heath Eslinger

Episode 62: Title IX and Athletics: Equipping & Empowering Coaches, Parents, and Athletes with Heath Eslinger

Aug 15, 2024

Today on The Law and Education Podcast, we step away from the chaos and confusion surrounding the Title IX litigation landscape and the August 1st implementation deadline to bring you an important conversation. Join host Betsy Smith, Director of Title IX Services at ICS, and Heath Eslinger, Cofounder of A Better Way (ABW) Athletics, for an enlightening discussion on Title IX and its impact on athletics. Betsy and Heath delve into how Title IX regulations influence the sporting world and the necessity of equipping coaches, parents, and athletes with the appropriate infrastructure, tools, and resources. They provide valuable insights and practical advice to help everyone involved in athletics achieve their goals and enjoy a positive sporting experience. The conversation also addresses the critical issue of hazing, offering guidance on training and prevention within the context of Title IX compliance. For a deeper understanding of the intersection between education, law, and athletics, and to learn how to foster a safer and more supportive environment for all athletes, be sure to tune in today!

Key Points From This Episode:

An introduction to Heath, ABW Athletics, and his work in the sports and education space.
The importance of training and preparation for coaches and sports leaders.
Compliance versus real change and how we can better support our coaches.
Reasons that education and sports leaders should be proactive rather than reactive.
The realities of hazing, how damaging it can be, and why awareness is critical.
Why tradition isn’t an acceptable excuse for unethical practices.
The immense power of servant leadership, continuous learning, and humility.
What it looks like for a coach to commit to the well-being of the athletes in their care.
Practical advice for discussing difficult topics like hazing with young kids.
Training and prevention guidelines for coaches and administrators in the context of Title IX.
The profound impact coaches have on children (and why we need to take it seriously).
A quick recap of the key takeaways from today’s conversation.