Celebrating the 35th Anniversary of
Hilltopper Women’s Athletics: 1974–2009

1974 marked a turning point for the women of St. Edward’s. After
years of playing intramural sports on campus, the doors finally opened
for them to compete in intercollegiate games — and create a women’s
sports program.

Former Physical Education Professor Diane Daniels became the driving force behind the women’s program at St. Edward’s, organizing and coaching the first volleyball, tennis and basketball teams. Ups and downs were common in those early years. But the dedication of Daniels and her players prevailed with remarkable success.

Much has changed in 35 years, but the strengths that defined those early grassroots teams still characterize Hilltopper women’s athletics today:

• Thirst for competition
• Passion for the game
• Commitment to excellence on and off the field

Today, the Hilltopper women’s athletics program is a dominating presence in the NCAA Division II Heartland Conference, fielding teams in six sports and competing for national titles.

Hilltopper Athletes Excited About 35th Anniversary

“Being a college athlete is something to be proud of,” says Sara Head ’10, Hilltopper women’s basketball team starter and field goal leader. Head knows her pride is owed in part to the early trailblazing women athletes of St. Edward’s. Reflecting on this anniversary, Head says she realizes how much the program has grown — and how even today, “Female athletes are making a stand and impacting the lives of future female athletes.”

Hilltopper women’s soccer midfielder Mallory Roberts ’09 says the 35th anniversary is important to her because, “It represents the struggles women’s athletics have overcome at St. Edward’s.” Roberts is in her fourth year of soccer at St. Edward’s and has helped her team win two conference championships. She credits Diane Daniels with helping pave the way for her to be part of an unforgettable experience. “Without Diane, I may not have had this opportunity,” she says.

Find out more about Hilltopper Athletics. Check out upcoming games to attend with your student.

 

Copyright © 2009 St. Edward’s University