Sixteen-year-old swimmer Abbigail Wheeler found herself at the center of a controversy after protesting the presence of biological males in the women's locker room at her Springfield, Illinois YMCA. Wheeler and a teammate posted signs advocating for "Women's Rights," "Biological Women Only," and "SafeSport" to inform other female athletes. Wheeler alleges that this action led to her dismissal from the YMCA SPY swim team, a claim the YMCA disputes.
The YMCA's communications director asserts that Wheeler voluntarily left the team, contradicting Wheeler's account. Wheeler maintains she was effectively removed from the team following her protest.
This incident has garnered attention, with former University of Kentucky swimmer and women's sports advocate Riley Gaines voicing her support for Wheeler. Gaines commended Wheeler's courage in speaking out on this sensitive issue, particularly at such a young age.
The controversy reportedly began in April when Wheeler first observed biological males in the women's locker room. According to accounts, Wheeler and her family attempted to address their concerns with the swim coach and YMCA CEO, but their requests for policy changes were reportedly denied. These requests included allowing transgender individuals to use private bathrooms and informing the swim team of any policy updates.
Wheeler's older sister, Kaitlynn, also a former University of Kentucky swimmer and teammate of Gaines, expressed pride in her sister's actions. Kaitlynn drew parallels between her sister's experience and her own encounter with transgender athlete Lia Thomas during the 2022 NCAA Division I meet. She expressed frustration that both she and her younger sister faced similar situations.
Gaines further criticized Abbigail's coach for his alleged dismissal of the concerns raised by female swimmers, particularly given that he has a daughter himself.
