Pride in Sports.

LeBron Raymone James Sr, one of the best NBA players in history, is 6’6” inches tall. Now, it would be fair to assume that his height gives him an unfair advantage on the court. Yet, in his case, his genetics are celebrated and even sought after.

Then why do we continue to use biological unfairness as the (tired) reason to keep the trans community off the playing field?

The focal point of this discrimination, however, is the exclusion of trans women in cisgender teams. This is just another form of transmisogyny as these restrictions are not as frequently laid out on transgender boys and men, focussing solely on regulating women’s bodies.

The biggest threat to women’s sport is not trans-inclusion. The biggest threat to women’s sport is those who say no to equal pay and opportunities. It’s people who continue to support male athletes who violently abuse women. It’s those who do not call out the use of sexist, homophobic, transphobic slurs and allow rape culture to continue to permeate in sport. It’s sponsors and advertisers who say no to equal investment for women. Rest is just a feeble argument to cloak transphobia.

A queer nonbinary transmasculine college squash player, who was recently allowed to switch to the men’s squash team said it was the best decision and experience of his life. “If I hadn’t switched teams, I don’t think I’d be where I am today. I certainly would not be the optimistic human that I am, who is filled with life and passion and joy.”

Sports is about biology, yes. But it’s also about passion, determination, and dreams. The dream to be the best swimmer in the world. Or the best gymnast. Footballer. The fastest girl. Now imagine someone telling her she’s on the wrong track.

As corporations and others neatly fold their rainbow flags and tuck them away for next June, do imagine that, if only for a second.