A U.S. magistrate judge has rejected an emergency request to block a transgender athlete from competing in the Mountain West Conference women’s volleyball championship. The ruling allows the San Jose State University player to participate in the tournament, which begins Wednesday in Las Vegas.
The decision by Judge S. Kato Crews followed a lawsuit filed by nine current players in the conference, challenging policies that allow transgender athletes to compete. The players argued that the athlete’s participation posed safety risks and was unfair to competitors.
Controversy Surrounding the Athlete
The San Jose State player, who has played at the collegiate level for three seasons, including two with her current team, has faced scrutiny this season regarding her reported gender identity. While the university and conference have declined to confirm the player’s transgender status, court filings and public debate have centered on the issue.
According to the lawsuit, some players claimed the athlete’s physicality created safety concerns during practices and matches. Despite these objections, the judge ruled that the conference policy permitting her participation, established in 2022, represents the status quo.
University and Conference Respond
San Jose State University released a statement affirming its support for the player and commitment to NCAA and conference eligibility rules. “We are gratified that the court rejected an eleventh-hour attempt to change those rules,” the university said.
The Mountain West Conference echoed this sentiment, emphasizing its policies align with NCAA and USA Volleyball guidelines, which include testosterone suppression requirements for transgender athletes.
Fallout from Season Boycotts
The controversy has led to several teams forfeiting matches against San Jose State during the season, citing objections to the player’s participation. These forfeits affected league standings, but Judge Crews declined to re-seed the tournament.
San Jose State’s head coach, Todd Kress, acknowledged the emotional toll on his players, who have received hate messages throughout the season. Despite this, the team remains focused on competing.
