This book is designed for those wishing to acquire a specific and comprehensive knowledge of the recreational sports program and an understanding of its place and value in education and society. Part one describes the recreational sports program in education with stress on its historical evolution and philosophical foundations. Special attention is given to Title IX and its far-reaching implications for recreational sports. Part two brings out the manner in which school and community recreation have converged to produce the community school and a community education philosophy. Part three contains a description of "new" participants in the recreational sports program (very young children and senior citizens). It also discusses the effect on professional leadership of the social change flowing out of federal legislation protecting women's rights. Part four identifies the organizational and administrative pattern for recreational sports and brings out alternative patterns, including campus recreation. In part five other aspects of the recreational sports program such as finances, publicity, awards, safety, and the purchase and care of equipment are considered. The final section supplies details about tournaments, meets, and special recreation programs. A list of recreational sports is appended. (Authors/JD)