ABSTRACT
In its 2009 pre-Super Bowl coverage, the Washington Post published a somewhat provocative story about the advancements – or lack thereof – among women in sports broadcasting. The story acknowledged that more women than ever were involved in covering sports – including high-profile events like the Super Bowl – but had bumped into what the author termed a “glass – or ‘grass’ ceiling” when it comes to moving into the broadcasting booth (Farhi, 2009, para. 3). On record, several prominent female broadcasters praised the changes in attitude by media companies and male bosses and noted the advancements that women had made in sports media. Indeed, many broadcasts of major men’s sports feature women as part of the reporting team – often working as sideline reporters where they stand near the action, providing color and background via short stories throughout the event. Furthermore, some women, including the likes of Erin Andrews and Andrea Kremer, are routinely part of the biggest sporting events of the year and have built successful and visible careers. But off the record, women spoke more candidly about the challenges they face in earning respect and opportunities on the job. One comment in particular proved telling. “‘This is the most misogynist part of society,’ [said] one, wary of offending her bosses.‘It’s the last bastion of acceptable sexism’” (Farhi, 2009, para 9).
