Nevada and San Jose State Women’s Volleyball Match Relocated to California
The women’s volleyball game between Nevada and San Jose State, originally set to take place in Reno, Nevada, has been moved to San Jose, California, according to a joint announcement from the two schools.
“This change was made for the benefit of both teams and to ensure the safety of the student-athletes, coaches, athletic personnel, and fans,” stated the joint announcement. “This decision has received the endorsement of the Mountain West Conference.”
The change follows statements from Nevada athletes who expressed they would not participate in the game against San Jose State.
Nevada’s volleyball captain Sia Liilii mentioned to the Reno Gazette Journal on October 15 that the team’s refusal to play stemmed from concerns about a transgender player on the opposing team.
San Jose State has refrained from discussing any player’s gender on its team and has stated that it adheres to all NCAA and Mountain West Conference rules.
The university had informed the RGJ on Monday that it was still planning to travel to Nevada unless there were any changes.
“As long as there are no updates, SJSU volleyball intends to head to Nevada for the match to avoid the risk of forfeiting,” noted Michelle Smith McDonald, senior director of media relations at San Jose State.
Nevada has consistently stated that it cannot legally cancel the game, but it supports the players’ choice to opt-out.
With the change of venue, if Nevada fails to appear on Saturday, it would forfeit the match.
Four schools have chosen not to play against San Jose State: Boise State, Southern Utah, Utah State, and Wyoming.