For one RPCS grad, Title IX changed the face of sports at Princeton

September 4, 2012

For one RPCS grad, Title IX changed the face of sports at Princeton

By Meredith Bower

The year was 1970. Princeton University was beginning its second year as a co-ed university and Roland Park Country School alumna Louise Meledin was a freshman at the college. Title IX legislation had not been passed and even if there were a lacrosse or field hockey team at the Ivy League school, there weren't enough girls to field it.

But, that did not stop Louise who had a genuine love of sports. She joined the club field hockey and lacrosse teams, and in her junior year (when Title IX had passed and more women were enrolled) became Princeton's first Women's Lacrosse Team Captain--a position she held for two years. She set a scoring record at Princeton in field hockey attributing her skills to her physical education teacher at RPCS, Miss Murray.  At the same time, Louise, the girl who was known at RPCS for her dedication, exemplary work habits and unyielding spirit, made a name for herself on the golf course. In 1973 she was a finalist at the MSGA's Amateur Championships and in 1974 and 1977 earned the title of Champion of the Women's Golf Association of Baltimore.

Looking back, Louise seems to have been only peripherally aware of Title IX and that was simply due to a suggestion from her Princeton lacrosse coach (former assistant to Miss Murray, Penny Hinkley) that she consider the groundbreaking legislation as a topic for her senior thesis.

Louise, who played on the her high school varsity field hockey and lacrosse teams two years apiece, has remained a cheerleader for RPCS sports.  She reflects, "Having come from RPCS, women's sports in the second year of co-education at Princeton looked like the dark ages, not an opportunity. Title IX changed that."

This profile is part of a series of stories about women in IAAM schools who benefitted from the Title IX ruling passed 40 years ago. Did Title IX have an impact on someone you know? We welcome your stories. Please send to: meredithbower@comcast.net