NCAA Faces Criticism Over Gender Policies Amid Calls for Cheek-Swab Tests

The NCAA is facing mounting pressure to follow the example set by World Athletics in implementing gender tests for athletes competing in women's sports. This call comes after World Athletics president Sebastian Coe announced the introduction of cheek-swab tests to ensure fairness in the female category, describing the process as "very straightforward" and "necessary."

Coe emphasized that the tests are non-invasive and said he’s prepared to weather any criticism. Advocates for fairness in women’s sports are urging the NCAA to adopt similar measures to safeguard the integrity of female athletics.

In his commitment to protecting women’s sports, Coe stated, "We will doggedly protect the female category, and we’ll do whatever is necessary to do it." His resolve has already been backed by legal victories, with regulations upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Closer to home, the NCAA’s gender-participation rules have been under scrutiny. Under current policies, athletes assigned male at birth are barred from competing on women’s teams even if their birth certificate has been amended. However, critics argue that loopholes exist, particularly with the ability to change birth certificates in 44 U.S. states, including 14 states where no medical documentation is required.

Former All-American swimmer Riley Gaines has been vocal about her dissatisfaction, calling the NCAA’s updated policy "as clear as mud." Meanwhile, NCAA spokespersons maintain that there are no waivers for trans athletes to compete in women’s categories based on altered documents.

The NCAA has also defended the practice of allowing male players to train with women’s teams, citing their long-standing role in enhancing performance, particularly in sports like women’s basketball.

The debate continues to spark heated opinions, with advocates demanding clearer and stricter guidelines to ensure fairness while balancing inclusivity.