At a recent Idaho House State Affairs meeting, the spotlight shone on the protection of women's sports, as Riley Gaines, a prominent advocate and former collegiate swimmer, urged lawmakers to uphold the original intent of Title IX. Gaines, who serves as the vice chair of Athletes for America and director of the Riley Gaines Center, passionately commended the Boise State women's volleyball team for their remarkable season and their courage in standing up for their rights.

Gaines shared her personal journey as a 12-time NCAA All-American and a two-time Olympic trial qualifier, highlighting the challenges she faced during her senior year at the University of Kentucky. She recounted a pivotal moment when female swimmers, including herself, were compelled to compete against Leah Thomas, a transgender athlete, at the national championships. This experience, she noted, underscored the ongoing debate surrounding fairness in women's sports.

The discussion at the meeting emphasized the need for legislative action to protect the integrity of women's athletics, with Gaines calling for a commitment to preserving the competitive landscape for female athletes. As the conversation continues, the implications of these discussions could shape the future of women's sports in Idaho and beyond.