NAIA votes ban trans athletes women's sports

NAIA Council unanimously approves new policy allowing transgender athletes to participate in sports based on biological sex.

At the recent annual conference meeting, the NAIA Council of Presidents made a significant decision with a unanimous 20-0 vote to approve a new policy. This policy, as detailed in a recent NPR story, focuses on transgender participation in women's sports within the collegiate association.

The policy states that all athletes are allowed to participate in NAIA-sponsored male sports. However, only athletes who were assigned female at birth and have not undergone hormone therapy are permitted to participate in women's sports. Students who have started hormone therapy can engage in activities like workouts and practices but are not eligible for interscholastic competition.

The NAIA has created separate categories for male and female participants in all sports except for competitive cheer and competitive dance. This decision was made due to the competitive advantages male student-athletes may have in sports that require strength, speed, and stamina. While the number of transgender athletes at the high school and college levels is unknown, it is believed to be small. Despite this, the issue has sparked controversy among conservative groups and others who oppose transgender athletes competing on women's teams.

The NAIA acknowledges the possibility of legal challenges to the policy but stands by the decision as one that aligns with the beliefs of its membership and board. This policy aims to address the complexities surrounding transgender participation in sports while maintaining fairness and inclusivity within the collegiate athletic community.