The San Jose State University women's volleyball team recently concluded a challenging season marked by controversy surrounding a transgender player, Blaire Fleming, and resulting forfeited matches. Head coach Todd Kress reflected on the difficulties faced by the team, including hateful messages directed at players and staff following opponent forfeitures. Boise State, Wyoming, Utah State, and Nevada all forfeited matches against SJSU, citing concerns related to Fleming's participation.
Kress emphasized the team's commitment to following NCAA and Mountain West Conference regulations and denied that SJSU hindered any player's opportunities. He expressed his priority of ensuring player safety and well-being amidst the external pressures. The coach also acknowledged the emotional toll the season took on himself, the players, and the supporting staff.
The situation escalated with a lawsuit filed by team co-captain Brooke Slusser and other Mountain West players against the conference and San Jose State. The lawsuit alleges Kress sought Slusser's removal from the team and filed Title IX complaints against her based on her public statements regarding her beliefs, not her conduct within the team. Slusser claims the university threatened her scholarship for speaking publicly about sharing team facilities with Fleming.
Despite the ongoing legal battles, Kress expressed gratitude for Slusser, Fleming, and the other senior players. He also thanked San Jose State University Police Chief Michael Carroll for ensuring the team's safety throughout the season. Heightened security measures, including police presence at games, were implemented after the initial forfeits and Slusser’s lawsuit gained attention. A San Jose State spokesperson confirmed that opposing teams were not formally notified about the situation with Fleming and Slusser before matches.
The controversy extended beyond the current season, involving former head coach Trent Kersten, who recruited Fleming. A lawsuit involving a former assistant coach alleges Kersten knowingly recruited Fleming without informing the other players. Kress, who succeeded Kersten, expressed disappointment with his predecessor's handling of the situation and his lack of support for Fleming. While acknowledging potential tension within the team, Kress expressed his belief that addressing these challenges head-on could lead to positive outcomes.
Although the Spartans' season has concluded, the legal proceedings continue, highlighting the complex and sensitive issues surrounding transgender athletes in sports.
