The San Jose State women’s volleyball team has experienced several match cancelations this season due to a controversy involving a transgender player on the team. However, the team received some good news when no upcoming opponents indicated plans to forfeit future matches, allowing the team to move forward with their season. The team recently suffered a loss to San Diego State, bringing their record to 9-2 for the season. Despite this setback, the team is focused on finishing the season strong with 13 regular season games remaining on the schedule.
The upcoming matches for the San Jose State volleyball team include games against UNLV, New Mexico, Air Force, San Diego State, Colorado State, Fresno State, and Nevada. They are also set to have rematches against some of the teams that forfeited their first matches against the Spartans. Despite the controversy, the team is looking forward to competing in the remaining matches of the season. Additionally, the team’s season finale against Boise State is scheduled to take place at Boise State’s campus, where a recent executive order has been signed to enforce legislation preventing biological males from competing in women’s sports.
The controversy surrounding the San Jose State volleyball team has brought attention to the national debate over transgender inclusion in women’s sports. Junior Brooke Slusser, a player on the team, joined a lawsuit against the NCAA regarding their policies on gender identity along with former college swimmer Riley Gaines. Slusser raised concerns about her safety and the safety of her teammates while playing against Blaire Fleming, a transgender player on the team. The intense backlash led to the team receiving police protection to ensure their security during matches.
Head coach Todd Kress expressed frustrations over the interference of government and politics in college sports, particularly in the case of his team. He emphasized that college sports should be a safe haven free from such influences and expressed concern that decisions made at higher levels were impacting the student athletes on his team. Despite the challenges faced by the team, they remain focused on competing in the remaining matches of the season and have continued to push forward despite the controversy surrounding them.
The San Jose State volleyball team has become a focal point in the ongoing discussions surrounding transgender inclusion in women’s sports. With players like Brooke Slusser and Blaire Fleming at the center of the controversy, the team has continued to compete with determination and resilience. As they navigate the remaining matches of the season, the team is focused on maintaining their competitive spirit and drive to succeed on the court. Despite the challenges they have faced, the San Jose State volleyball team remains committed to representing their university with pride and determination.