It was disappointing to see the NCAA women's college basketball championship game on Page 3 of the Sports section ("Huskies run away with crown," April 10).
News of the men's college championship game, which had occurred the night before, was placed on the section's front page. Both games highlighted the talents, abilities, spirit and emotion of elite athletic competition. The only difference between the two games was the gender of the athletes.
While participation in sports by women and girls has increased greatly, these athletes continue to face hurdles in receiving equal recognition and credit. As a result, we are less aware of, or have to dig further to read about, women's athletics at the national level. I believe everyone benefits from coverage of women's sports.
Women athletes at the college and professional levels provide role models and inspiration for young people, especially the girls who aspire to follow in their footsteps.
By giving consistent placement, style, and length of coverage to equivalent events, regardless of the gender — or, I contend, while acknowledging the gender — of the participants, the Times Union can send a powerful message to athletes and fans alike and further the cause of gender equity.
Charmaine Wijeyesinghe
Delmar