Altoona Times

In a recent statement, Pennsylvania State Senator Judy Ward expressed concerns over male athletes participating in female sports events. The remarks were made following the PIAA indoor track state championships held on March 2, where two male athletes competed alongside female participants.

Senator Ward highlighted that this situation is not isolated, citing data from Pennsylvania since 2020. "Since 2020 in Pennsylvania, 37 female athletes have lost first place, and another 13 lost second or third place," she stated. The issue extends beyond track events to other sports such as swimming and fencing.

The physiological differences between males and females were emphasized by Ward. She referenced findings from the American College of Sports Medicine, noting that "males, on average, have larger hearts and thus greater stroke volume" along with other physical advantages that contribute to superior athletic performance.

Ward pointed out the emotional and psychological impact on female athletes who lose opportunities due to these dynamics. She also mentioned incidents where female athletes sustained injuries during competitions involving male opponents. A volleyball player suffered neurological impairments after being struck by a ball spiked by a male competitor.

Senator Ward urged for protective measures for women in sports: "Do we wait to enact protections for women until more lose opportunities or awards or until more get physically harmed? Does it have to be your daughter for it to matter?"

She called for action to preserve the progress made by women in securing equal rights and opportunities in sports: "Our girls need us to step up and ensure that they can compete, learn, and grow in a society that protects their most basic rights."

Residents interested in following Senator Ward's legislative activities can connect via her Facebook page or Twitter handle @SenatorJWard. Further information is available on her website.