This article is excerpted from a speech by co-founder of Women's Sports Foundation. Sports is a vital part of our socialization process. The level and quality of participation contributes to such diverse issues as girls' mathematical ability, sense of isolation, and self-esteem. (IAH)

Dudley A. Sargent, M.D., was Director of the Hemenway Gymnasium at Harvard University for 1879 to 1919. For the first ten years he was also an Assistant Professor of Physical Training. In 1889, President Eliot recommended that Dr. Sargent be promoted to full professor. In an unprecedented action the Board of Overseers rejected Eliot's…