### Mountain West Conference Denies Allegations of Rule Change Over Trans Player Boycott

The Mountain West Conference has firmly rejected claims that it secretly modified its regulations to penalize schools for boycotting games involving teams with transgender players, specifically in women's volleyball. This statement comes amidst a lawsuit from several female athletes across multiple schools alleging the rule was created as a direct response to their cancellations.

According to the plaintiffs, the controversial regulation designed to enforce forfeits on teams refusing to compete against San Jose State University (SJSU), due to their transgender player Blaire Fleming, was suddenly implemented on September 27. This date coincides with the announcement of match cancellations by several universities. However, the Mountain West Conference maintains that the rule in question was actually adopted two years prior and has remained unchanged since its inception.

The current policy stipulates that any team refusing to play against a team with a transgender athlete must accept a forfeit loss rather than simply a cancellation, as might occur for reasons such as inclement weather. Further, teams are not obligated to disclose the presence of transgender athletes on their rosters.

The lawsuit, involving 12 female athletes and coaches from universities including the University of Wyoming (UW), Boise State University, Utah State University, the University of Nevada, Reno, and SJSU, seeks to disqualify Fleming from participation under Title IX. The plaintiffs argue that this rule was implemented to suppress their boycott and was not part of the originally adopted guidelines.

The case also alleges extensive internal struggles within the SJSU team. Former and current players, as well as a coach, allege that Fleming's inclusion on the team has led to competitive imbalances and safety concerns. Allegations range from discriminatory treatment to claims of coerced silence from school officials regarding Fleming’s gender identity.

With the November 27-30 Mountain West Conference tournament in Las Vegas approaching, the lawsuit aims to prevent Fleming's participation and bar the conference from enforcing forfeits against boycotting teams. The outcomes of these litigations and the subsequent actions of the Mountain West Conference could significantly impact future policies on the inclusion of transgender athletes in collegiate sports.