Coach Wins Title IX Retaliation Suit

The former head coach of a women's college basketball team was awarded $28,000 -- a year's salary -- for her school's violation of Title IX.

Lorri Sulpizio filed a complaint against San Diego Mesa College, alleging that the school engaged in gender inequities, violating the statute that prohibits discrimination based on gender in federally funded educational programs or activities, including sports.

The lawsuit alleged that Sulpizio was fired after making repeated complaints about female athletes, coaches, and programs receiving unequal treatment. A California state court jury ruled Thursday that the San Diego Community College District had retaliated against Sulpizio, and the jury therefore awarded her the damages.

According to the National Center for Lesbian Rights, Sulpizio served as head coach of the Mesa women's basketball team for six years, from 2001 to 2007, after spending three years as an assistant coach. She led the team to championship play at tournaments and secured several high-level finishes in the Pacific Coast Conference, including an undefeated record and conference championship in 2002.

Sulpizio was represented by the NCLR, Leslie Levy of Boxer & Gerson LLP, and Mattheus E. Stephens of Stock Stephens LLP.