Track Star Defends Girls' Sports in Trans Athlete Debate, Draws Political Fire
A profile of Crean Lutheran track athlete Olivia Viola, a Christian who speaks out against transgender competitors in girls’ sports, recounting last season’s setback to a trans athlete and the criticism she’s faced for speaking out. The piece frames the issue as broader than one sport, highlighting activist efforts to protect girls’ sports and political fallout in California, including Sheriff Chad Bianco’s support for protections and Governor Gavin Newsom’s controversial comments. A Public Policy Institute of California poll is cited showing broad opposition to biological male athletes in women’s sports, and Viola says she plans to vote for Bianco, who has pledged to withhold funding from schools that allow males in girls’ sports.