Playing Through Fear: A Trans Athlete's Journey in 2025

I’ve had quite the week, which included a visit to Las Vegas for the Creating Change Conference. This has given me time to reflect on the increasingly hostile environment that transgender people, like myself, are facing from the new government.

Last Monday, I watched an inaugural address that struck a somber and divisive tone, targeting many groups, including the transgender community. In moments like these, what keeps me grounded are the hours spent sweating through drills and perfecting plays on the football field. These practices are my escape from the fear and anxiety that have become familiar companions.

When I’m not writing about sports, I play football for the Connecticut Ambush, a team in the Women’s Football Alliance’s third division. It's a place where I find solace and self-care, a tradition started by my late father who first introduced me to the joys of sports.

Off the field, I volunteer as an operator for Trans Lifeline, a service where I have heard countless stories of despair and desperation from my community. The atmosphere is tense and challenging, but I am grateful for the support of people like my team's owner, Colleen Vacirca, and my teammates who stand by me.

In 2025, being a transgender American involves worrying about friends who are parents facing school harassment due to their child's gender identity, and friends in the military being told they are no longer welcome. This climate is exacerbated by the political rhetoric from figures like Rep. Greg Steube, who push for policies that marginalize trans athletes.

The mantra "don’t read the comments" resonates with many trans individuals who face aggressive and violent online discourse. Some comments are so extreme that they seem to suggest public violence against trans people. Such sentiment is fueled by political campaigns that spend millions demonizing trans individuals.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Despite the hostility, I draw inspiration from athletes like Sadie Schreiner, a standout sprinter at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Schreiner, a two-time NCAA Division III All-American, continues to excel despite facing transphobic comments. Her resilience is a beacon for many, including myself, reminding us to live boldly even when it’s difficult.

The Creating Change Conference was a much-needed respite, a gathering of like-minded individuals strategizing and supporting one another. A pivotal moment for me was being acknowledged by Chris Mosier, a trailblazer in trans athletics. His encouragement reminded me of the importance of amplifying our voices.

My commitment is to continue sharing stories and to celebrate the achievements of all LGBTQ athletes, standing firm against those who hide behind a false narrative of "protecting women's sports" while ignoring the richness and diversity of all sports.

Standing Strong Together

I refuse to bow to those who disrespect the integrity of women's sports. There are those who attempt to pit cisgender and transgender athletes against each other, but they fail to recognize the camaraderie and mutual respect that exists among players.

I’ve been fortunate to play on four teams across two sports since I began my transition, and in every instance, I’ve been met with acceptance and support from players and coaches alike. My teammates in the Ambush, who are cisgender, are all heart, and I support them as fiercely as they support me.

It’s disheartening to see my life and identity politicized, but it strengthens my resolve to fight for my community and to continue playing the game I love. This is what it means to be a transgender American athlete in 2025, navigating fear and rhetoric, yet refusing to be stopped.

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