The San Jose State women's volleyball team's inclusion of a transgender athlete, Blaire Fleming, has ignited significant controversy and legal action. A federal judge recently ruled in Fleming's favor, permitting her to participate in the Mountain West Conference tournament, a decision that has drawn both support and criticism.

Fleming's performance, leading the team in kills and kills per set, has been a focal point of the discussion. Some observers have questioned the power behind Fleming's spikes and whether her transgender status confers a strength advantage. However, others, including current and former volleyball players, have downplayed these concerns, arguing that similar power and athleticism are seen in cisgender female athletes at high-level programs.

Blaire Fleming of the San Jose State Spartans (#3) reacts during a game. (Andrew Wevers/Getty Images)

Logan Eggleston, a former Texas Longhorns star, noted that many powerful hitters exist in women's volleyball, regardless of gender identity. Michigan State’s Aksha Anderson echoed this sentiment, pointing out that male practice players and coaches are common in the sport, representing a potentially greater safety concern than a transgender teammate.

Blaire Fleming of the San Jose State Spartans (#3) attacks the net. (Andrew Wevers/Getty Images)

Conversely, some teammates, like Brooke Slusser, have expressed safety concerns, alleging injuries from Fleming's spikes and arguing that transgender athletes possess an inherent strength advantage over cisgender women. Slusser also raised the issue of fairness regarding scholarships and competitive opportunities.

Logan Eggleston speaks to the press. (Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports)

The judge's decision to allow Fleming to compete has sparked backlash, highlighting the complex and ongoing debate surrounding transgender athletes in sports. This case underscores the tension between inclusion, fairness, and safety in collegiate athletics.