Feds open broad bias probe into Iowa athletics

IOWA CITY, Iowa – The University of Iowa is facing a broad federal civil rights investigation into allegations that its athletics department does not provide equal opportunities for female athletes.

Documents obtained by The Associated Press show the Office for Civil Rights is looking into gender bias allegations in 13 areas, including how the department counts participation levels, awards scholarships, and schedules practices and games. Investigators will visit Iowa in April.

The review comes as Iowa’s highly ranked men’s basketball and football teams have been showered with attention.

If discrimination is found, the case could result in a settlement requiring the university to change policies or spend more on female programs.

A school lawyer says she believes the review will show Iowa “strives to provide male and female students an equal opportunity to participate.”

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