The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) is implementing significant changes to its competition rules during this weekend’s state track-and-field championships. This decision aims to facilitate increased participation for girls, particularly in light of ongoing debates surrounding the involvement of transgender student-athletes in high school sports. The CIF announced this change on Tuesday, following a social media post by former President Donald Trump, which highlighted the participation of a trans athlete in the upcoming competition.
Under the newly introduced pilot entry process, any biological female student-athlete who could have qualified for the CIF State meet but did not achieve the necessary marks during their sectional finals will have an opportunity to compete. The CIF stated, “The CIF believes this pilot entry process achieves the participation opportunities we seek to afford our student-athletes.” This change specifically pertains to the 2025 CIF State Track and Field Championships, thereby expanding access for female athletes during a pivotal time.
This rule alteration occurs amidst a broader national discussion regarding the rights of transgender youth. Numerous states have enacted laws that limit the participation of transgender girls in female sports, with at least 24 states implementing such regulations. While some of these policies face legal challenges, a recent AP-NORC poll revealed that approximately 70% of U.S. adults oppose the inclusion of transgender female athletes in girls' sports across all levels.
The CIF has not clarified whether this rule change applies to all events or solely to those where a trans athlete has qualified. Importantly, this new policy is exclusive to the state championship event occurring this weekend. The organization has not disclosed how many students will be impacted by this rule change, making it a unique case in high school sports governance.
In a related development, Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw federal funding from California if the state does not prohibit trans students from participating in girls' sports. This threat comes in response to the participation of AB Hernandez, a trans athlete competing in multiple events at the state finals. Trump expressed his disapproval on social media, stating, “THIS IS NOT FAIR, AND TOTALLY DEMEANING TO WOMEN AND GIRLS.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom has weighed in on the issue, labeling it “deeply unfair” for trans girls to participate in girls' sports. Newsom's spokesperson described the CIF's rule change as a “thoughtful approach” to navigating this complex issue without sacrificing competitive integrity.
Organizations such as the California Family Council, which opposes trans participation in girls' sports, have characterized the CIF's rule change as “damage control.” Meanwhile, Equality California, an LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, condemned the actions of the Trump administration as bullying and urged the CIF to maintain its inclusive policies. They emphasized the importance of protecting all athletes and ensuring equitable competition.
The discourse surrounding Hernandez's participation has stirred significant reactions. Parents and conservative advocates have publicly criticized her involvement, and some have heckled her during competitions. In a recent interview, fellow athlete Katie McGuinness voiced her concerns about the CIF's policies, urging prompt action to address the issue. In contrast, Hernandez has remained focused on her performance, expressing that external negativity should not distract her from her goals.
As the CIF prepares to implement these changes at the state championships, the implications for high school sports and the participation of transgender athletes remain a contentious topic. The outcome of this weekend’s events may set a precedent for future policies regarding inclusivity and fairness in sports competitions across the nation.
