Transgender Runner Sadie Schreiner Barred from Women’s Track and Field Team Amidst NCAA Gender Eligibility Policy Shift
Introduction
Transgender runner Sadie Schreiner has been withdrawn from future competitions for the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) women’s track and field team following the NCAA’s adoption of a new gender eligibility policy. The policy, which aligns with President Donald Trump’s executive order, prohibits transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports.
NCAA’s Gender Eligibility Policy Change
On February 6, 2021, the NCAA officially modified its gender eligibility policies, banning all biological males from participating in women’s sports. The new policy states:
"A student-athlete assigned male at birth may not compete on a women’s team."
However, the policy allows biological males to practice with women’s teams and receive other benefits available to student-athletes.
RIT’s Compliance
RIT has stated that it is complying with the NCAA’s new policy in the wake of the Trump administration’s executive order. As a result, Schreiner will not be participating in the next meet. It remains unclear whether Schreiner has been removed from the team’s roster or is still practicing with the squad.
Schreiner’s Controversial Past
Schreiner has been a polarizing figure in women’s track and field. In May 2021, she competed at the NCAA Division III Outdoor Track & Field Championship, finishing last in the 400-meter race but claiming a spot that could have been occupied by a biological female.
Earlier that month, Schreiner won both the 200- and 400-meter events at the Liberty League Championship, breaking the 400-meter record. If she had competed in the men’s event with the same performance, she would have finished last by over two seconds.
Schreiner’s Previous Statements
In late January 2022, Schreiner expressed pride after winning an event against female competitors. She noted that the race was not what she had hoped for but emphasized the season’s early stage and her determination to give her all at nationals.
In December 2021, Schreiner criticized states and colleges that did not offer her a full scholarship when she considered transferring. She attributed this to laws in 25 states prohibiting transgender athletes from competing with girls and women.
Schreiner’s Limited Options
Under the NCAA’s new policy, Schreiner will likely be unable to compete on any women’s college teams throughout the country. However, she retains the option to participate on a men’s team.
Conclusion
The NCAA’s gender eligibility policy shift and President Trump’s executive order have significant ramifications for transgender athletes like Sadie Schreiner. While the new policy permits transgender athletes to practice with women’s teams and receive certain benefits, they are barred from competing in women’s sports. This decision has sparked controversy and raises questions about the balance between inclusivity and fairness in athletics.
