Wokism is still transforming collegiate athletic traditions and practices. This time around, it is women’s volleyball.The NCAA cited Title IX policies, which require colleges to play scheduled games. Four colleges have canceled upcoming games against San Jose State, who has a transgender player on their women’s team. Brooke Slusser, a San Jose State team member, backed the colleges who stood up to San Jose’s position. The NCAA’s decision to include a transgender athlete in collegiate volleyball competitions has sparked debate.
Controversy Over Forfeited Matches
Four universities, including Utah State and Boise State, have forfeited volleyball matches against San José State University (SJSU), sparking a larger debate about the inclusion of transgender athletes. A fifth Nevada college has decided to follow their lead. The speculation about the athlete’s gender identity prompted these actions, bringing the NCAA’s policies to light.
This decision has divided stakeholders, with conservatives emphasizing fair competition while advocacy groups emphasize inclusivity and acceptance. SJSU’s position on NCAA eligibility remains unchanged, regardless of how other teammates feel about their safety and overall fairness.
NEW:
"Nevada became the fifth team to forfeit a women’s volleyball match to San Jose State, with one of its players saying the move was in protest of NCAA guidelines that allow transgender women to compete under certain conditions."
By @Marisa_Ingemi https://t.co/3Adb6yFWvv
— Demian Bulwa (@demianbulwa) October 14, 2024
Lawsuits and Legal Challenges
Brooke Slusser, an SJSU player, has joined a lawsuit against the NCAA, claiming that policies allowing transgender athletes violate Title IX rights. These legal actions reflect the ongoing struggle to balance rights and competitive equity. Despite these challenges, the NCAA’s assurance of Title IX compliance remains clear, but it does not resolve disputes.
Utah and Idaho governors have supported university decisions, reflecting legal battles in both states over transgender athlete participation laws. Current lawsuits prevent the implementation of these laws, leaving universities to navigate changing legal landscapes.
I stand with the students, coaches and leadership at @SUUtbirds and @USUAggies in their decision to forgo their women’s volleyball matches against San Jose State.
It is essential that we preserve a space for women to compete fairly and safely. Our female athletes are left…— Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox (@GovCox) October 3, 2024
Reactions and Future Implications
Transgender rights advocates argue that the player’s gender identity was shared without consent, highlighting the larger challenges that transgender athletes face. Equality California denounces recent event-driven decisions as indirect attacks on the LGBTQ+ community. However, conservative organizations claim that the actual females on the teams have been treated unfairly.
Nevada’s approach stands out, as UNR continues to play volleyball against SJSU despite player boycotts, citing state constitutional obligations. This delicate balance of individual choice and institutional mandates complicates an already complex issue.
