EQUALITY

The New Hampshire Interscholastic Athletic Association (NHIAA) held a pivotal meeting Nov. 22 to address growing concerns over its policies permitting transgender athletes to participate in sports based on gender identity.

These policies conflict with HB 1205, a state law designed to preserve fairness by prohibiting biological males from competing on female-designated sports teams in grades 5-12.

Under NHIAA’s current rules, schools may allow biological males to compete on female teams if their gender identity is reflected in school records and daily activities. This approach undermines the integrity of girls’ sports and denies opportunities to female athletes.

The meeting attracted a strong turnout from those advocating for fairness in sports, including Sierra, a student-athlete who spoke courageously in defense of single-sex competition. Sierra and her mother stood alongside others who waved signs and cheered in support of preserving spaces for girls to compete without unfair biological advantages.

“This is about fairness, plain and simple,” said one parent. “Female athletes like Sierra work hard to earn their place on teams, and they shouldn’t have to compete against athletes with inherent physical advantages due to biological differences.”

Currently, three transgender athletes are participating in New Hampshire’s interscholastic sports. Two were granted legal injunctions allowing them to compete, while one, Maelle Jacques, a biological male, has been denied eligibility.

Jacques has faced additional personal challenges, including a criminally convicted father and lack of maternal support.

Supporters of HB 1205 argue that permitting biological males to compete in girls’ sports jeopardizes fairness, safety and equal opportunities for young female athletes. They emphasize that athletic categories exist to ensure a level playing field for all competitors.

“Biological males have undeniable physical advantages — greater muscle mass, bone density and lung capacity — that give them an edge over female athletes. These differences don’t disappear simply because someone identifies differently,” said another attendee.

The NHIAA must now navigate these tensions, but many argue the path forward is clear: fairness must prevail, and state law must be respected.

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The New Hampshire Interscholastic Athletic Association (NHIAA) oversees interscholastic sports programs across the state, promoting educational athletics and ensuring opportunities for all students to develop physically, mentally and socially through organized sports.