The president of the Cheyenne Tennis Association board resigned last week after a transgender female was permitted to compete in the women’s division for the annual Wyoming Governor’s Cup tournament.
In an interview with Cowboy State Daily, Jackie Fulkrod expressed her disapproval of collegiate player Brooklyn Ross’s participation in the tournament this weekend.
She explained:
“I think a man playing against a woman is a very unfair matchup when it’s specifically meant for women in that specific draw. I feel like having a transgender athlete compete in the women’s draw is against my personal integrity and what I believe and value.”
Fulkord, who served on the board for almost two years, said her decision to resign was due to the lack of protection for the organization and the “female athletes that are going to be playing in the tournament.”
“I can understand the tournament director’s position because of lawsuits and that kind of thing, but as a personal belief, I thought this is wrong, this is not something we want to set as a precedent in Cheyenne because what’s the next thing?,” she inquired about the future of female sports in the state of Wyoming.
Ross, who has competed in other tournaments around the nation, also gave a statement in response to Fulkord’s departure.
“I feel sad this woman has resigned over this. I feel like there’s no reason to,” Ross said.
Additionally, the tennis player spoke about receiving an all-conference sportsmanship award this past season.
“To me (the award), that’s more important than anything. I’m respecting the sport and respecting my opponent. I’m respecting the game,” Ross said.
The United States Tennis Association, responsible for its authorization of the Governor’s Cup tournament, defended its decision to allow transgender players to compete.
“Tennis thrives when the sport embraces inclusion. For that reason, tennis is open to all regardless of one’s age, ethnicity, race, religious background, sexual orientation, or gender identity,” the United States Tennis Association said in a statement to the outlet.