Last night, a panel of six women and one man confronted both the popular and controversial topic of women in sports.

The board ranged from well-known former Penn State women's soccer player Christie Welsh to Justin Sandherr, coach of the women's club basketball team.

Depending upon his or her past experiences, each person tackled a problem area for women in sports. These topics varied from women in the media and sports to the male perspective on women in sports.

After all the members spoke on their respective topics, the discussion was subsequently opened up to the audience for questions.

One area that was discussed in detail was the perception of women in sports.

"Sex sells," said former Penn State women's golfer Sara Doell.

She explained this statement by talking about eight Golf for Women magazines.

On the covers there were different celebrities, all of whom were not on the LPGA tour.

This topic was further discussed as women athletes like Anna Kournikova, Danica Patrick and Michelle Wie were both praised and berated for their impact on women's sports.

"Everyone knows who Anna Kournikova is. She's never won a tournament. Not to say that she's not a fabulous world class athlete, but she's never won a tournament," said Katie Dougherty, assistant coach of the Penn State women's tennis team.

Both Patrick's controversial photo in FHM magazine and her new commercial for motor oil were discussed by the panel.

However, the consensus remains that any publicity, good or bad, is still helpful for the proliferation of women's sports in society.

Another topic tackled was the names that women athletes are often labeled. Without even realizing it, society degrades women by not giving them the respect they deserve.

"I hate when someone says 'Uh, the girls team.' Like, no. It's the women's team. There is not one girl on my team. Everyone has had their period," Dougherty said.

In terms of being called a tomboy, most of the panel did not mind it. They said it made them feel like they were part of the team.

However, this term has led to some of society perceiving women athletes as lesbians.

"It is an umbrella that encompasses the entire athletic department," said Penn State women's golf coach Denise St. Pierre. "It is not just one sport. We need to do something about it. ... It's a never ending cycle."