NCAA President Mark Emmert Says Governing Body Will Continue to Allow Transgender Participation
NCAA President Mark Emmert Says Governing Body Will Continue to Allow Transgender Participation
In a recent letter sent to a former Olympian and multi-time NCAA champion who is fighting for women’s rights and against the unfairness of transgender women competing against biological women, NCAA President Mark Emmert noted the organization he oversees has no plans to change its rules on the topic. The letter was shared with Swimming World, with the writer requesting anonymity.
The issue of transgender participation at the NCAA level became a hot-button topic this winter with University of Pennsylvania athlete Lia Thomas competing for the Quakers, and eventually winning an NCAA title in the 500-yard freestyle. Before transitioning, Thomas spent three years as a member of the men’s squad at Penn.
The argument against transgender women competing against biological women stems from the advantages transgender athletes reap from male puberty. In addition to the strength gained from testosterone production, transgender women benefit from larger lung capacity, greater height and larger hands and feet.
The NCAA initially indicated it would abide by the guidelines set forth by various national governing bodies. However, when USA Swimming developed stringent rules for participation, the NCAA backtracked on its stance.
Here is what Emmert wrote in his letter.
