The University of Nevada’s women’s volleyball team just took a bold stand, announcing they’d forfeit an upcoming game rather than face San Jose State’s team, which includes transgender athlete Blaire Fleming. The decision comes amid increasing debate over safety and fairness in women’s sports, particularly as several players have expressed concern following a recent incident in which Fleming’s powerful spike struck an opposing player in the face.
In a statement shared with OutKick, Nevada’s players said they were unwilling to play against San Jose State, citing their “right to safety and fair competition on the court.” They also voiced their support for other teams, like Southern Utah and Boise State, that have similarly opted out of facing San Jose State this season due to concerns over the physical advantage posed by Fleming, who stands at 6-foot-1 and ranks among the conference’s top hitters.
Yet Nevada’s administration wasn’t backing down, responding with a statement affirming that the forfeiture “does not represent” the school’s stance. According to the university, both state and federal laws, as well as NCAA guidelines, require an “inclusive and supportive environment,” and the game will go on as planned. While the school respects players’ rights to opt out of participation without disciplinary action, it emphasized its commitment to inclusivity and adherence to laws that protect gender identity.
The University’s decision has already sparked a social media uproar, with critics arguing that trans athletes have unfair advantages in women’s sports, and Fleming’s recent on-court hit only intensified these calls. Some advocates have pointed out that Fleming’s power and athleticism—demonstrated during the viral spike that briefly sidelined San Diego State’s Keira Herron—highlight the disparity. Herron, although laughing it off afterward, became the center of debate as clips spread across social platforms.
San Jose State’s coach, Todd Kress, acknowledged the scrutiny and the mental toll it’s taking on the team. He noted that hate mail has piled up since Fleming joined the team in 2022, expressing frustration over how “outside forces” are impacting players’ mental health. Kress condemned the backlash, calling much of it “disgusting,” while urging his athletes to focus on their love for the game and each other amidst the controversy.
Fleming remains a dominant force, ranking third in the Mountain West for kills, and second in total points. As both sides dig in, the broader debate over transgender athletes in women’s sports only seems poised to intensify, particularly as Nevada’s volleyball team and others continue to weigh the implications of competing.
