Friends of Basketball

Cindy Luton

Year Inducted: 2025

Category: Friends of Basketball

Schools / Organizations:

(Springfield) Lanphier High School

Biography:

Cindy was a pioneer at (Springfield) Lanphier High School as a teacher and coach from 1968-2001. The passage of Title IX in 1972 enabled girls to participate in sports. 

Cindy formed and coached girls’ teams in basketball, badminton, volleyball, softball and track.  Girls were allowed only four games in each sport initially and the district’s girls’ coaches received just $10 per game as pay. Cindy’s biggest challenge was fighting for gym time. She had to hold many practices from 7-9 at night.  Cindy Luton is a true pioneer of the Title IX era in central Illinois.