LAFAYETTE, La. (AP) - An attorney says 13 women are pursuing complaints involving gender discrimination against the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

The Advertiser in Lafayette reports Allison Jones said in a Wednesday news release that nine softball players have filed a complaint with the federal Office of Civil Rights. They allege they were deprived of appropriate trainers, and that they weren't provided with the same types of facilities, equipment and supplies that their male counterparts had.

At a news conference in Shreveport, Jones said the claims resulted in retaliation, including loss of scholarships. Jones also said four female professors hired her to file complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission alleging harassment and discrimination.

The university issued a statement saying it disputes the claims and will "strongly defend itself" from false allegations.