"The man on your team harmed your brand"-Riley Gaines expresses dissent after San Jose State University asks for compensation over tarring their image

Riley Gaines recently voiced her disagreement following San Jose State University's request for compensation. The San Jose State University claimed the compensation resulted from damage to their reputation after multiple teams pulled out from competing against them due to the inclusion of a transgender player on their team.

Five school volleyball teams forfeited the clash against the San Jose State University team over the inclusion of Blaire Fleming, a reportedly transgender athlete. School volleyball teams, including Southern Utah, Boise State, Wyoming, Utah State, and Nevada turned their backs on competing against the San Jose State University's volleyball team.

According to Outkick.com, San Jose State University demanded compensation from two schools, including Boise State and Utah State, asking for the losses incurred due to the canceled matches. The university sought $1,250 for the forfeited matches. However, the Boise State and Utah State schools have opted not to pay the compensation.

Gaines, who has been a staunch protestor of transgender athletes competing in women's sports, expressed her resentment over San Jose State University, claiming the compensation, stating it was the transgender athlete that tarnished the school's image.

"According to emails obtained by @Outkick, SJSU requested compensation from BSU & USU for “harming their institution’s brand” after they forfeited their match," Riley Gaines wrote. "Hey @SJSU, the man on your team harmed your brand—not the girls who prioritized their safety."

"Some things matter more than victory" - Riley Gaines lauds University of Nevada players for boycotting to compete against San Jose State University

The Nevada volleyball team decided to forfeit the match against San Jose State University held on Saturday, October 27, 2024. Riley Gaines, who has been backing the team since the start, lauded their stance during "Stand with Women" event organized by Independent Women's Voice.

"San Jose State University has a male on their team. Taking a scholarship, taking a roster spot, taking a travel spot from a hardworking, deserving female athlete," Riley Gaines said.

"They [University of Nevada Reno team] were set to play yesterday, but during game time these, these brave women, Sia and her teammates [captain of the team], they decided to hold a press conference. They ultimately decided to forfeit the match, understanding that they would accept a loss. Understanding that they would accept a loss but they said , 'Look, this is a loss that we are willing to accept, because some things matter more than victory, and in this case, our safety.' ", added the social activist."

Sia Lilli, the captain of the Nevada team held a press conference, announcing the team's decision to forfeit.