The NCAA's upcoming meeting in Nashville carries significant weight, particularly regarding the future of women's sports. With the political landscape shifting and new legislation on the horizon, NCAA President Charlie Baker faces a crucial decision. Will he uphold the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports or prioritize the concerns of female athletes who feel their safety and competitive fairness are at risk?

Baker's recent Senate testimony suggests a reluctance to take responsibility. His apparent indifference to the concerns of female athletes is alarming, especially considering a recent federal court ruling against the Biden administration's interpretation of Title IX. This ruling potentially jeopardizes the NCAA's defense of its current trans-inclusion policy, increasing the likelihood of losing lawsuits challenging it.

Female athletes are protesting to protect their sports. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

While the NCAA boasts increased viewership of women's sports and the addition of women's wrestling, these advancements don't necessarily equate to progress for female athletes. The inclusion of transgender athletes in women's wrestling, using a testosterone standard that some consider lax, raises concerns about fair competition. In contrast, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has taken a firm stance, restricting women's sports to biological females.

Baker's testimony also included potentially misleading information about the number of transgender athletes competing and the alleged constraints imposed by federal courts. He suggested that women athletes unhappy with the current situation should find alternative solutions, a statement that has drawn criticism. Furthermore, the NCAA's lack of research on the impact of its trans-inclusion policy on female athletes adds to the controversy.

NCAA President Charlie Baker faces a critical decision. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Public opinion is increasingly critical of the NCAA's stance. Female athletes, coaches, and parents are voicing their concerns and challenging the organization's decisions. Recent forfeits by university teams highlight the growing resistance to the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports. The NCAA's failure to acknowledge the potential harm its policy inflicts on female athletes further fuels the debate.

Baker has a pivotal opportunity to reconsider the NCAA's approach and prioritize the safety and fairness of women's sports. The upcoming Nashville meeting will reveal whether he chooses to lead the NCAA toward a more equitable solution or continue down a path of contention.