Sadie Schreiner, a transgender sprinter from New Jersey, has initiated legal action against the State University of New York at Geneseo, certain members of its athletic staff, and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Schreiner claims that she was unlawfully prevented from competing in women’s events at a track meet held in March 2025.

Background of the Case

Schreiner, who is currently listed as an athlete for the Rochester Institute of Technology for the 2024-25 season, sought to compete in the 200-meter and 400-meter races during the Geneseo Early Invitational. She had qualified for these events based on her performance times and registered as an “unattached” athlete, which is typical for individuals not representing a school or club.

NCAA Policy Change and Its Impact

According to the lawsuit, SUNY Geneseo officials informed Schreiner that her entry was denied due to new NCAA regulations established on February 6, 2025. These regulations prohibit transgender women from participating in women’s sports—a policy change prompted by an executive order from former President Donald Trump, which threatened federal funding for institutions failing to comply.

Schreiner alleges that she was only offered the option to run in a solo exhibition, which was described by the track coach, Christopher Popovici, as necessary to avoid invalidating the competition results for other athletes.

Legal Claims and Proceedings

The lawsuit, filed in the Livingston County Supreme Court in New York, names the NCAA, Coach Popovici, and Athletic Director Dani Drews as defendants. It accuses them of violating the New York Human Rights Law, participating in a civil conspiracy, and causing emotional distress to Schreiner. Schreiner and her attorney Susie Cirilli contend that the NCAA recognized its policy could conflict with state laws yet still pressured Geneseo to enforce it.

Seeking Justice

In her lawsuit, Schreiner is pursuing compensatory and punitive damages, as well as reimbursement for legal fees. She has also requested that a jury trial be held to address her claims.

Schreiner’s Athletic Background

Sadie Schreiner has made a mark in her athletic career, having been a two-time All-American during her time at Rochester Institute of Technology. She concluded the 2023-24 season with impressive finishes, securing third place in the 200-meter race and eighth in the 400-meter event at the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Championships.

Current Status

As of now, SUNY Geneseo and the NCAA have not provided any comments regarding the lawsuit.

Conclusion

This lawsuit is one of many that have arisen in recent years concerning the involvement of transgender athletes in competitive sports. The debate surrounding this issue has seen increasing attention, particularly during election cycles and political discussions.