A 22-year-old trans-identifying student at Swarthmore College recently attempted to join the school’s women’s track team, sparking a lawsuit over athletic eligibility.
Evelyn Parts, as identified in court documents, claims that Swarthmore College, certain staff members and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) violated his rights by preventing him from competing on the women’s team.
The lawsuit centers on the NCAA’s Participating Policy for Transgender Student Athletes, commonly referred to as the ‘Trans Ban,’ which prohibits trans-identifying men from competing on women’s collegiate teams.
Parts alleges that the restrictions caused him severe emotional distress, including depressive episodes and self-harm.
Court filings indicate he reported suicidal thoughts to a friend.
He was offered the option to compete as a man or to run unattached from the college, yet he reportedly declined both alternatives, according to The Daily Caller.
Swarthmore reinstated him to the track team on April 11, and he participated in three meets.
Media coverage notes that his involvement affected female athletes competing in the same events.
Lauren Lovingood, Parts’ girlfriend, recently told Teen Vogue that participation on the women’s team is “a very affirming thing” for him, allowing engagement in society in a way that aligns with his gender identity.
Supporters highlight inclusion, while critics argue that his case demonstrates the tension between accommodating trans-identifying athletes and preserving fair competition for biological women.
Parts’ performance was described as middle-of-the-pack, but the case has raised questions about whether trans-identifying athletes may gain an advantage when competing in women’s sports.
Some observers point to instances of male athletes who have struggled to compete against other men and subsequently claim “trans” status to participate in female events.
These scenarios have intensified debates over fairness, opportunity and the integrity of women’s athletics.
Medical and psychological experts classify gender dysphoria—the condition underlying many trans-identifying individuals—as a recognized mental health disorder.
Many “trans” adults face significant mental health challenges, with elevated rates of depression, self-harm and suicidal ideation.
Critics note that competitive sports policies intersect with these health concerns, creating complex questions for schools and governing bodies regarding eligibility and athlete safety.
“Trans” participation in athletics has become increasingly contentious.
As trans-identifying athletes have sought to compete on teams that align with their identity, governing organizations have adopted a variety of eligibility rules.
Some require hormone therapy, documentation of transition or a specified period living in one’s identified gender.
Others impose restrictions to protect fair competition.
The patchwork of policies has led to legal challenges, public debate and scrutiny at high school and collegiate levels.
Parts’ case exemplifies the intersection of identity, mental health and competitive fairness.
Schools are now faced with balancing inclusion with the need to preserve equitable opportunities for biological women in athletics.
Educational institutions and sports associations face ongoing challenges in defining policies that protect female athletes while respecting individual rights of trans-identifying students.
As the lawsuit continues, it is likely to influence national discussions about eligibility standards, competitive balance and mental health considerations for trans-identifying students.
Swarthmore’s handling of the case may serve as a reference for other colleges and athletic organizations navigating similar challenges.
It highlights the difficult choices many educational institutions must make to ensure competitive integrity, student well-being and protecting female students..
