SJSU Volleyball Coach Blames Politics for Game Cancellations, Highlights Mental Health Concerns Amid Transgender Controversy

Ms. Romaine Stiedemann
October 5, 2024 07:03am
108

San Jose State University's volleyball head coach, Todd Kress, expresses his disappointment over canceled games and government interference in college sports, emphasizing the impact on his team's mental well-being due to the ongoing transgender controversy.

In the wake of San Jose State's women's volleyball team losing to Colorado State on Thursday night, head coach Todd Kress expressed his frustration over game cancelations and the impact on his team's mental health. The controversy revolves around the presence of transgender player Blaire Fleming, who has sparked a lawsuit by her teammate, Brooke Slusser.

Kress acknowledged the strain the situation has put on the team, particularly Fleming, who has faced the brunt of the backlash. He emphasized his role in ensuring the well-being of his players, both physically and mentally.

SJSU Volleyball Coach Blames Politics for Game Cancellations, Highlights Mental Health Concerns Amid Transgender Controversy

The ongoing controversy has prompted university police to provide added security to the team due to negative attention. Despite the forfeited wins counting towards San Jose State's record, Kress lamented the loss of playing opportunities. He attributed the cancelations to the intertwining of government and politics in college sports.

Kress believes that the government should refrain from interfering in college sports, as it deprives student athletes of their rights to play and compete fairly. He pointed to the actions of Idaho Governor Brad Little, Utah Governor Spencer Cox, and Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, who commended the universities in their states for forfeiting games against San Jose State.

SJSU Volleyball Coach Blames Politics for Game Cancellations, Highlights Mental Health Concerns Amid Transgender Controversy

The controversy stems from legislative actions in multiple states aimed at keeping transgender athletes out of women's sports, including Idaho's Defending Women's Sports Act. These actions are primarily in response to the Biden-Harris administration's clarification that Title IX's ban on sex discrimination includes gender identity.

The Biden administration's rule, which took effect on August 1, has been met with opposition from Republican attorneys general who argue that it will allow biological men to participate in women's sports. Despite the Biden administration's insistence that the regulation does not address athletic eligibility, experts have presented evidence that it could lead to the inclusion of biological men in women's sports.

SJSU Volleyball Coach Blames Politics for Game Cancellations, Highlights Mental Health Concerns Amid Transgender Controversy

The Supreme Court rejected the Biden administration's emergency request to enforce portions of the new Title IX rule, leaving states like Idaho to take countermeasures. Governor Little expressed readiness to face potential federal funding cuts due to his order barring transgender athletes from girls' sports.

Kress acknowledged the challenges his team will face as they navigate a landscape of different state laws impacting their schedule. He emphasized that the situation has not only impacted Fleming's mental health but also that of the entire team.

SJSU Volleyball Coach Blames Politics for Game Cancellations, Highlights Mental Health Concerns Amid Transgender Controversy

Kress believes that the tension surrounding the controversy could be a catalyst for team growth and success. He emphasized the importance of confronting and resolving issues within the team, rather than allowing unspoken tensions to fester.

Despite the ongoing controversy and canceled games, San Jose State's volleyball team remains technically undefeated with a 9-1 record and a 3-1 conference record. Fleming's skills and the team's ability to navigate the challenging situation may help them reach the NCAA tournament.