Prior to the advent of Title IX, girls’ sports had been consigned largely to the edges of the school experience. The groundbreaking gender equity law signed in 1972 would make a lasting impact by increasing the participation of girls and women in athletics.
In 1965, however, through the vision of one man, Richard Beyst an English and History teacher at Huff Junior High School, opportunities in athletics for young girls already began to change. That year, Beyst recruited a group of junior high school girls who became known as the Lincoln Park Parkettes, forming a highly competitive track and field and cross-country club. The girls soon began attending local meets and invitationals under the sponsorship of the Michigan Amateur Athletic Union (AAU). The affiliation with AAU, and under the watchful eye of coach Beyst, led to a core of highly disciplined and well-trained athletes, traveling state-wide and nation-wide and even to Canada. The club was soon achieving championship level performances and a well-admired reputation.
The club would expand its age range from ages 9 to 18, affording younger girls the experience of being coached and supported by their team mentors, which often times included an older sister or two. As the club’s reputation grew, it accepted new members from communities outside Lincoln Park, and the Lincoln Park Parkettes changed its name Wolverine Parkettes in 1968.
In November of 1969, the Wolverines won the Women’s Cross Country National Championship title at Los Angeles. Runners on that championship team had by now acquired three or four years of top-level experience (see photo caption to the right). Early in 1970 the State of Michigan issued a formal resolution commending the Parkettes and coach Dick Beyst on their achievements. Other championships followed in 1970 and 1971. The Parkettes also hosted a number of meets at Lincoln Park.
On March 26th, the museum will open a new exhibit celebrating these young athletes, many now approaching their seventies.An opening reception will be held that afternoon from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The exhibit will run through Saturday, May 28th. After that date, a smaller permanent display on the club will be in place. Featuring photos, trophies, medals, uniforms, and other memorabilia contributed by former club members.
Join us for an Opening Reception with club members 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 26, 2022
View the event poster HERE.