WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert Weighs In on Transgender Athletes in League-Wide Memo
Cathy Engelbert, the WNBA commissioner, has issued a memo to team leaders on how to approach the topic of transgender participation in women's sports, amid controversy sparked by comments from Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham.
The memo, obtained by The Athletic, emphasizes the importance of approaching the issue with integrity and respect. Engelbert listed three guiding principles for the league, including thoughtfully and respectfully addressing the topic, aligning with the league's values, and preserving the integrity of the game.
The issue has dominated conversation around the WNBA, with Cunningham recently stating her support for excluding trans athletes from women's sports. The Indiana Fever have faced rallies at road games in the wake of her comments.
Engelbert's memo does not clarify whether or not trans athletes are allowed to play in the WNBA. The league's collective bargaining agreement states that "only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA." However, Engelbert wrote that the league has a previously scheduled meeting of a task force of presidents and GMs to address this conversation and other league issues.
Coaches around the league have been asked about the issue, with some expressing support for inclusion of transgender athletes. Golden State Valkyries All-Star Gabby Williams has welcomed transgender athletes joining the WNBA, while the Women's National Basketball Players Association released a statement denouncing "hate, abuse, and demonization" of the transgender community.
The Women's National Basketball Players Association statement comes in response to comments from coaches like Cheryl Reeve, who has been a vocal advocate for inclusion of transgender kids. Engelbert praised team leadership for their response to increasing questions and invited them to continue reaching out to her with questions and perspectives.
The issue is expected to continue receiving significant attention, according to Engelbert. The task force meeting will likely be a key moment in the league's response to the controversy.
Engelbert's memo and the league's collective bargaining agreement do not provide a clear stance on the issue. However, the scheduled task force meeting suggests that the league is actively addressing the topic.
The WNBA has not commented on whether trans athletes are currently playing in the league. The league's response to the controversy will likely have a significant impact on the future of transgender participation in women's sports.
Source: Yahoo Sports