Santa Rosa JC Players File Title IX Complaint; Match Marred by Protest Over Trans Athlete Participation
Three players from Santa Rosa Junior College have filed a Title IX complaint alleging the school’s decision to allow a transgender teammate on the women’s volleyball team causes physical danger, deprives them of competitive fairness, and has led to retaliation by their coach. The issue came to a head when protesters gathered outside a match against Sierra College in Rocklin, demanding protections and clarity for women athletes. SRJC and its district assert they follow community college athletic rules and applicable laws, but the dispute is now under formal review.
What the Complaint Says
Madison Shaw, Gracie Shaw, and Brielle Galli filed the complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, supported by ICONS (Independent Council for Women’s Sports). They claim that their transgender teammate poses a physical risk, including allegations of the ball being spiked with such force that a teammate suffered a concussion. The complaint also alleges that allowing the transgender athlete to occupy a roster spot deprives biological female athletes of opportunities, and that they were benched by their coach after raising these concerns.
The Protest Outside the Gym
Outside Sierra College during the match, protesters gathered. Some held signs, others spoke about concerns over safety and fairness in women’s sports. Among the attendees was Beth Bourne from “Yolo County Moms for Liberty,” expressing the view that sports should be divided by biological sex and that women deserve to compete under conditions that protect both fairness and safety. Several protesters reportedly handed out signs to attending students during a timeout.
SRJC’s Response and Legal Context
SRJC’s spokesperson, Sarah Pugh, stated that the college is committed to an inclusive and supportive environment. The school pointed out that they comply with California Community College Athletic Association rules, as well as state and federal law. They emphasized respect for student privacy and the proper handling of eligibility and participation under existing policies.
Meanwhile, legal experts have weighed in, saying that the complaint may misinterpret how Title IX applies. Title IX protects against sex-based discrimination, including for transgender students under many interpretations, but specific sporting rules, definitions of “biological sex,” and regulatory guidelines vary and are often being litigated.
Stakes for the Players
The three SRJC players are asking for several changes: that the transgender athlete not be allowed on the roster, that their coach cease retaliatory behavior, and that the institution ensure women’s safety and fairness. They are particularly concerned about incidents that allegedly caused injury, and until now say their concerns weren’t adequately addressed internally.
Broader Implications
This case joins a growing number of controversies nationwide over transgender participation in women’s sports. Rules differ by state, school, athletic association, and sport. Some courts and organizations have tried to balance inclusion with competitive fairness and safety, but doing so has proven difficult.
Cases like this often stretch into issues of public policy, civil rights, medical science, privacy rights, and the mental health of all students involved. They test how institutions enforce rules, handle complaints, and uphold both inclusion and fairness.
What Happens Next
The complaint is under review by relevant authorities. It’s unclear how long the process will take. Outcomes could include changes to eligibility rules, internal disciplinary or coaching adjustments, or institutional policy revisions.
Meanwhile, protests and public attention are likely to continue. More stakeholders—students, parents, civil rights groups—may weigh in. The case could influence how California community colleges and other athletic associations build or revise policies regarding transgender athletes in women’s sports.
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