SJSU Advances to Mountain West Volleyball Final as Boise State Forfeits Semifinals Amid Trans Player Controversy

Transgender Eligibility Controversy

Skinner, a sophomore outside hitter for Boise State, is one of the most talented players in the conference, averaging 4.25 kills per set. However, her eligibility has been challenged by some who argue that she has an unfair advantage due to her biology.

The NCAA allows transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports if they have undergone at least one year of hormone therapy to suppress testosterone levels. However, some critics believe that this is insufficient to level the playing field.

Forfeiture Amidst Protests

On Friday, a small group of protesters gathered outside the arena where the semifinals were scheduled to be played, chanting slogans against Skinner and transgender athletes in sports.

Boise State officials initially said that the team would play, but later announced the forfeiture due to “the safety of our student-athletes and the overall integrity of the conference tournament.”

NCAA Response

The NCAA has not yet commented on the specific situation at Boise State, but the organization has previously defended the eligibility of transgender athletes.

“The NCAA fully supports the participation of transgender student-athletes,” said NCAA President Mark Emmert in a statement last year. “We believe that all student-athletes, regardless of their gender identity, deserve the opportunity to participate and compete in a fair and inclusive environment.”

Future Implications

The controversy at Boise State is likely to raise further questions about the participation of transgender athletes in sports. It is unclear at this time whether more conferences or schools will consider forfeiting games involving trans players.

SJSU will now face Colorado State University in the Mountain West Championship final on Saturday.