Over 20 gathered recently for a rally to “Save Women’s Sports”, which took place at Rockland City Hall, directly before a candidates’ forum.  

It was organized to highlight the refusal of incumbents Ann Matlack and Bill Pluecker to support a ban keeping biological men out of women’s sports, a bill sponsored by Republican Beth O’ Connor.  Organizers hoped to raise the concern during the debate.  

As a former competitive athlete who feels women should have the opportunity to be champions in their own sports, I am puzzled by the absurdity of this.  It is a scientific fact men and women and different. Men are stronger, with more muscle mass, larger lung capacity,  and denser bones.  

At the high school where my daughter teaches, a biological male on the women’s volleyball team, seriously injured another student by spiking the ball, causing spinal injuries.  Is it wise to allow men in women’s sports?  How long will it be before women don’t even bother to play anymore?  

My heart aches for the girls who will be too timid to try.  I was an average student but a good athlete and recall how nice it felt to excel at something; it helped develop my confidence and self-esteem.  It seems we are taking away opportunities for girls in the name of transgender rights.  

Lawsuits have been filed with women athletes raising reasonable questions and pointing out what they see as injustice.  Why should they miss out on scholarship potential, invite increased chance for serious injury, and suffer the loss of never having a real competitive advantage?   

This shouldn’t be a political issue, but it was a straight party vote (LD 926) with “independents” going with democrats in their typical fashion. This is about equal opportunities for girls. Women and girls deserve to be champions in their own sport.  

The transgender discussion is far from over and as a federally protected class they appear to be receiving special treatment.  Special treatment is not the same as equal treatment.  Save women’s sports and vote accordingly on November 8. 

Paula G. Sutton lives in Warren