Legendary basketball coach says she supports trans athletes: ‘if you’re a woman, you should play’
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In a groundbreaking move that has sparked both praise and controversy, South Carolina’s renowned women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley has firmly declared her support for transgender athletes being allowed to compete in women’s sports. Staley made her stance clear during a press briefing following her No. 1 Gamecocks’ victory over NC State in the Final Four.
Staley, a former NCAA and WNBA player and three-time Olympic gold medalist, is no stranger to the world of sports. She has been recognized as an influential figure in women’s basketball, having won the Naismith National Coach of the Year award multiple times.
The topic of transgender athletes in women’s sports was broached by right-wing commentator Dan Zaksheske during the press conference. Zaksheske, who is associated with OutKick, a platform known for its anti-trans views, referred to trans women as “biological males” in his question to Staley.
Despite the potentially controversial nature of the topic, Staley did not waver in her response. She firmly stated, “I’m of the opinion that if you’re a woman, you should play. If you consider yourself a woman and you want to play sports, or vice versa, you should be able to play.”
Staley’s unwavering support for transgender athletes comes at a time when the inclusion of trans individuals in sports is facing backlash in various parts of the world. Major sporting federations in the UK, such as Badminton England, British Rowing, and Swim England, have implemented bans on transgender women competing in women’s categories. Additionally, World Athletics announced stricter regulations for elite-level trans athletes just last year.
While Staley’s stance has garnered praise from advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, it has also attracted criticism from those who oppose the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports. Despite the potential backlash, Staley seems undeterred, acknowledging that she may face online criticism for her views but remaining steadfast in her support for trans athletes.
Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD, commended Staley for her advocacy and leadership on the issue. In a statement to The Advocate, Ellis praised Staley as a visionary in women’s collegiate basketball and highlighted her support for trans women athletes as a beacon of light and true leadership.
Staley’s vocal support for transgender athletes is a significant moment in the ongoing conversation around inclusivity and diversity in sports. As debates continue to unfold regarding the participation of trans individuals in athletics, Staley’s stance serves as a powerful statement in favor of equality and acceptance on the playing field.
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South Carolina, transgender athletes
