California Athlete Reflects on Gender Policy Controversy After Meet

Yorba Linda, California — Reese Hogan, a 16-year-old athlete from Crean Lutheran High School, made headlines this past weekend after competing in the CIF Southern Section Finals. Despite finishing second in the triple jump, Hogan’s actions during the podium ceremony have drawn attention to the ongoing debate over transgender participation in girls’ sports.

During the finals held on Saturday, Hogan achieved a personal and school record with a jump of 37 feet, 2 inches. However, she lost to a transgender athlete from Jurupa Valley High School, who won the event by more than four feet and also claimed victory in the long jump.

After the ceremony, when the competitors cleared the podium, Hogan stepped into the first-place spot to pose for a photo. This moment resonated with many viewers on social media, who lauded her as the “real champion.” One user heralded her bravery, stating, “When the boy got off the podium, she assumed her rightful spot as champion. The crowd erupts with applause.”

Leading up to the event, Hogan and other female athletes wore “Protect Girls Sports” shirts to protest against California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) policies. However, Hogan alleged that officials instructed them to remove the shirts, threatening consequences for noncompliance. “It wasn’t said, but it was implied that if I didn’t take my shirt off then and there, then something could potentially happen to my spot,” she explained.

The CIF confirmed that the shirts violated uniform guidelines and stated, “All athletes must be dressed in proper, school-issued, track uniforms.” However, witnesses claim other athletes wearing non-uniform shirts were not subjected to similar removal orders.

Hogan’s story highlights the challenges faced by female athletes in California amid ongoing debates about gender eligibility in sports. As discussions continue, Hogan has become a symbol for those advocating for women’s rights in athletics.

Despite not winning the event, Hogan remains focused on advocating for the rights of female athletes and raising awareness about their experiences. She shared her commitment to seeking fair competition for all athletes.