WPSL's Brandi Chastain and Jerry Zanelli Respond to Chris Norby’s Negative Comments on Title IX

May 16, 2012 - PRLog -- When Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL) star Brandi Chastain attended a ceremonial California State Assembly vote on a resolution commemorating the 40th anniversary of Title IX of the Education Act of 1972, she did not expect to become part of a discussion on the merits of the law. That changed when Assemblyman Chris Norby of Fullerton questioned the impact of Title IX.

Title IX states: “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

During the discussion on a resolution marking the 40th Anniversary of Title IX, Norby questioned its impact, saying he believed that “faulty court interpretations” had led to many male sports being cut in an effort to reach “equality” for women’s sports. Unable to respond because of procedural rules, Chastain and WPSL Commissioner Jerry Zanelli, who was also present, shared their thoughts about the day’s events.

“Norby's comments were good for Title IX because they were a real call to action," said Chastain. "Norby brought a lot of attention to Title IX and made people feel they need to stand up and be heard in support,” she said. "I believe Title IX has more support than ever before."

While the comments made Chastain visibly wince, the World Cup soccer star was able to make lemonade out of lemons.  

“Title IX is now in the public eye again,” said Zanelli. “Yesterday the basic truth of what is at the core of the battle emerged. The un-hidden truth is now public.”

Until the media ran with Norby’s comments against Title IX, many people had forgotten the value and purpose of the resolution. “Many young female soccer players today have never heard of Title IX and are unaware of the role it has played in allowing them to compete in the sport they love,” said Chastain, who was born four years before the law was passed. When I was playing growing up no one ever talked to me about Title IX.”

“It is important that people do not forget,” said Chastain, one of the icons in American soccer. “Even in 2012, it is important that we remind people.”

"Through the years, there have been many attempts to dismantle Title IX,” Zanelli said, “and this has been fought off by women being involved in the political arena and the process, like Brandi. We all have to be vigilant and protect Title IX for future generations."

“Norby probably said what a lot of people are still thinking. It is just a shame that some men oppose Title IX, at least until they have a daughter and realize how universally important it is," said Zanelli.

Many members of the Assembly share Chastain’s feelings about Title IX, even some who originally opposed it. One of those was Republican Assemblyman Jim Silva of Sunset Beach. The former high school football coach once questioned the need for increasing funding for female athletes.

“Then, on March 18, 1978, my world completely switched,” the Sunset Beach Republican was quoted by the Associated Press. “That was the day my daughter was born.”

Even in America in 2012 it is important to remember how the past was and why the present is different. Keeping issues like gender equality in funding in the public light will help to remind people of how much things have changed.

“If we don’t revisit important issues like this, people will not remember,” said Chastain. “I don’t want people to forget about how it has impacted our lives. I feel like I’ve had every opportunity because of Title IX.”

“I love playing soccer. I am as excited today as I was twenty years ago,” Chastain said. “I’m looking forward to the launch of the WPSL California Storm season.”

Chastain and Brazilian star Sissi, who was also at the Sacramento event, now plan to move on to their role on the field as they prepare to lead the Sacramento Storm in the 2012 WPSL season. Under the direction of Zanelli, who also owns and coaches the Storm, the team will begin their battle for top position in the Pacific-North Conference with a non-conference match against San Diego SeaLions on May 19 at Folsom High School.

Looking back at her State Capitol experience, Chastain said, “I think what went on at the Capitol and receiving the resolution Monday was amazing. I think it helped a lot of local people discover the WPSL and California Storm. Hopefully more people will come out to the games than ever before.”

About the Women's Premier Soccer League (WPSL):
The Women's Premier Soccer League (WPSL) is the largest national Women’s Soccer League in the world. With more than 70-plus women’s soccer teams, the WPSL is the leading amateur soccer league in America. The league is sanctioned by the United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA) as an affiliate of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). The WPSL's mission is to provide opportunities to further the women’s soccer game for the aspiring professional, international-level players and passionate amateurs. The WPSL season and brings affordable & quality family entertainment to the community; displays positive role models for our youth; and offers the essential connection between youth and pro women’s soccer in America.

For more information please visit http://www.WPSL.info or email Media@WPSL.Info