A fourth university has forfeited its women’s volleyball match against San José State University amid controversy over the gender identity of one of the team’s players. Utah State University, along with the University of Wyoming, Boise State University, and Southern Utah University, made the decision to forfeit matches against SJSU over the last three weeks, though none have provided explanations. SJSU has maintained that its student-athletes are in compliance with NCAA and Mountain West rules and regulations, and the university is committed to supporting them in an inclusive, fair, safe, and respectful environment.
The controversy began with speculation on conservative websites about the gender identity of an SJSU player. In a lawsuit against the NCAA, SJSU player Brooke Slusser, along with other athletes, argues that the policy allowing trans women to compete on women’s teams violates Title IX. The lawsuit alleges that the teammate in question revealed she was a trans woman to Slusser, who expressed concerns about the teammate’s participation on the women’s team.
The NCAA defended its commitment to promoting Title IX and fair competition for all student-athletes but declined further comment. Trans rights advocates have raised concerns about the teammate’s privacy and the outing of her gender identity without permission. State governments, including Idaho and Utah, have supported decisions to cancel matches against SJSU, aligning with efforts to restrict trans inclusion in sports. Laws prohibiting trans student athletes from playing on teams according to their gender identities are currently facing legal challenges in several states. The NCAA’s recent policy change allows sports governing bodies to determine eligibility criteria for trans athletes.
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