Womens Hoops

The Mothers of Illinois Athletics: Illini Women’s Sports Pioneers

The Mothers of Illinois Athletics: Illini Women’s Sports Pioneers

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By Mike Pearson

FightingIllini.com

Just as George Huff is known as the “Father of Illini Athletics”, so too should Ella Morrison, Jeanette Lincoln, Gertrude Moulton, Louise Freer and Laura Huelster be recognized as the “Mother” for their pioneering contributions on the women’s side of sports at the University of Illinois.




University of Illinois Women’s Physical Education Directors
Years


Ella Morrison
1896-1900


Jeanette Lincoln
1900-09


Gertrude Moulton
1909-15


Louise Freer
1915-49


Laura Huelster
1949-66

Instruction in calisthenics was first offered to U of I women through the School of Domestic Science in 1874 and became mandatory for female students two years later. In 1895, when separate department of physical education were established for men…

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