Riley Gaines has once again stepped into the national spotlight. The former collegiate swimmer announced that she plans to attend two major Supreme Court hearings that could shape the future of women’s sports in the United States. The cases focus on whether states can legally restrict transgender athletes from competing in women’s categories.
Gaines said the upcoming decisions are extremely important. She believes the rulings will determine whether laws designed to protect women’s sports are constitutional. The hearings involve laws from West Virginia and Idaho. Both cases have drawn national attention and sparked strong opinions on fairness, safety, and equal opportunity in sports.
Riley Gaines backs state laws and supports female athletes speaking out
— riley_gaines_ (@riley_gaines_)
Riley Gaines confirmed she will be present at the Supreme Court in two weeks for the hearings of West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox. She explained that these cases will decide if states are allowed to protect women’s sports under the Constitution. Gaines also encouraged her supporters to make their voices heard by signing a related petition.
The West Virginia case centers on a state law that prevents transgender girls from competing in female sports categories. A middle school athlete named Becky challenged the law, arguing that it violates constitutional rights and Title IX protections. Becky has reportedly been on medication since the start of puberty. Gaines believes the case will have a major impact on youth and school sports nationwide.
The second case, Little v. Hecox, involves Idaho’s HB 500 law. This law banned transgender athletes from women’s sports. Lindsay, a transgender college student at Boise State University, was affected by the rule and challenged it in court. The Supreme Court agreed to review both cases.
In addition to her legal advocacy, Gaines recently voiced strong support for San Jose State University volleyball player Brooke Slusser. In a Fox News interview, Slusser shared the emotional stress she faced after learning a transgender athlete, Blaire Flemming, was competing on her team. Gaines accused the school of failing to inform female athletes about the situation.
Gaines said Slusser only spoke up after realizing she had been living with and sharing hotel rooms with a biological male during team trips. She added that Slusser eventually left school and returned home due to concerns for her safety and mental health. Gaines described the situation as abusive.
Slusser later revealed that the experience deeply affected her health. She said the stress led to an eating disorder and caused her to temporarily lose her menstrual cycle. Gaines continues to argue that these stories highlight why women’s voices must be central in discussions about sports policies.
Courtesy : TOI
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