Riley Gaines’ attorney, Bill Bock, has revealed that the NCAA must provide enforceable assurances to ensure long-term compliance with Title IX for any settlement to be considered. The case, which has advanced after a federal judge partially denied motions to dismiss, is focused on challenging the NCAA’s gender eligibility policy, which now requires trans athletes to compete in women’s categories only if they are biologically female. Bock stated that a judicial order or consent decree would be necessary for a settlement, as they seek to protect the rights of women in sports.
Bock emphasized that the NCAA’s current policy has been in place for over 15 years and has led to violations of women’s rights. He believes the lawsuit can still achieve its main objectives, including mandatory sex tests for female athletes, without settling. However, any agreement would need to be binding to prevent the NCAA from reverting to its previous policies. The NCAA has acknowledged the policy change following President Donald Trump’s executive order and stated that it remains committed to Title IX.
Other plaintiffs in the lawsuit include former San Jose State volleyball captain Brooke Slusser and former Rochester Institute of Technology track athlete Caroline Hill, both citing their experiences with trans athletes. The case has also garnered attention due to recent incidents where trans athletes have competed in women’s events, such as Evelyn Parts’ participation at Swarthmore College and Ithaca College’s allow for a trans athlete to compete in a rowing event. The NCAA has not yet provided a direct response to Bock’s statements but has addressed the judge’s decision in a statement.
With the case proceeding on Title IX claims, Bock remains confident that his side can achieve all its goals, including a judicial order and mandatory sex testing. The lawsuit aims to prevent future violations of women’s sports rights and ensure that the NCAA’s current policy aligns with Title IX standards. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the future of women’s sports and the enforcement of Title IX across collegiate athletics.