Quinnipiac Athletics at Trial for Alleged Title IX Violation

Quinnipiac is in the news once again, but this time it's not for the renowned polling institute. The future of cheerleading at Quinnipiac and as a sport in general, has fallen into the hands of a U.S. District judge after allegations of violations under Title IX.

After the university cut the women's volleyball team in 2009 in favor of the cheerleading squad, five members of the former volleyball team and coach Robin Sparks filed a law suit against the university.

According to an Associated Press report, the decision was made based on the cost each team would be for the university. A cheerleading squad costs the university about $1,250 per roster spot for the 30 person team, while volleyball costs $6,300 per roster spot for an 11 person team.

The trial, which began on June 20 in Bridgeport, Conn., will determine whether cheerleading can be counted as a sport and meet the gender-equity requirements described under Title IX rules. Under Title IX, all schools that receive federal funding must have a proportional number of athletic sports available for both sexes based on enrollment.

The plaintiffs claim the university manipulated sport rosters.

U.S. District Judge Stefan Underhill, whom is presiding over the case, issued a temporary injunction against the university last year, mandating that the volleyball team be kept until the trial is completed.

Yet the University maintains that it hasn't violated Title IX.

"The university believes that it has complied with all aspects of Title IX legislation and will continue to do so," Lynn Bushnell, vice president for public affairs in an official university statement, said. "Given that this is a matter awaiting adjudication, we will not comment further."

But the drama over cheerleading as a sport has always been a topic of controversy. Cheer enthusiasts are watching the trial closely as it may set a precedent on whether or not cheerleading can be counted as a sport under Title IX rules.

Currently, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) does not consider cheerleading to be an official sport.

Stay with Quad News for updates on the trial.