Tear Down This Wall: Why Men's College Sports Need More Female Coaches

A big part of being a college coach is molding boys into successful men. Obviously a woman can't do that. I just don't see a place for it. 1 When Natalie Randolph became the new head football coach at H.D. Woodson High School in 2010, the move sparked passionate reactions from fans, players, parents, media outlets, and even professional athletes. 2 Some applauded the move, but many vehemently argued that a woman should not coach a men's team. 3 "I don't want to hear any PC crap about women should be allowed to coach football just like men," an anonymous Internet user posted. 4 "There is no place [in football] for an estrogen injection." 5 A rival coach stated, "All I know is, I don't want to be the first to lose to her." 6 Despite the skepticism, Randolph has achieved great success on and off the field. 7 In just her second season, H.D. Woodson posted a record of eight wins and two losses and advanced to postseason play. 8 Off the field, Randolph has inspired her players to improve their lives. 9 "She motivated me to become a better person," said junior Hasan Jenkins. 10 "She helped me out and told me there are better things than being one of them hoodlums on the street." 11 Unfortunately, female head coaches in men's college football have been unable to match the success Randolph has achieved at the high school level. The reason? There are no female ...