For what reason did a university student believe her university violated federal law?

The belief that the university violated federal law is grounded in Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs and activities receiving federal funding. This law mandates that institutions provide equitable opportunities in athletic programs for both male and female students.

In this context, the elimination of funding for the women's varsity volleyball team specifically highlights a potential violation of Title IX, as it can be interpreted as an unequal allocation of resources that disadvantages female athletes compared to their male counterparts. When a university reduces or eliminates funding for women’s sports teams, it risks violating federal law aimed at ensuring equality in athletics.

The other choices, while potentially concerning issues regarding university funding and athletics, do not directly relate to gender-based discrimination or the specific legal protections offered by Title IX. For instance, the elimination of funding for men's teams or dismissing a coach without cause does not inherently suggest a failure to comply with federal gender equity laws. Likewise, budget cuts affecting academic programs do not address the specific issue of equal treatment in athletic opportunities as laid out by Title IX. Thus, the student’s belief centers on a critical aspect of federal law concerning gender equality in educational settings, making the choice regarding the funding for the women’s volleyball team