I’m sure this comic will elicit a measured and empathetic comment section.
Every time there’s an announcement related to trans folks in sport, the discourse is dismaying. It always focus on the most reductionist, most selfish, most outlandish possible scenarios, while ignoring why sport and competition is important in the first place.
Amateur competition is one of the most valuable paths to growth in modern society. How we discuss participation in that competition has huge ripple effects that can help or harm some of its most vulnerable participants.
The vast majority of the time I’ve spent competing through my life has been spent losing. I’ve dedicated countless hours to losing lacrosse games, losing basketball games, losing running races, losing bike races. Statistically, that’s the norm. More people lose than win. Luckily, winning isn’t the point.
That time spent losing is some of the most valuable, most important time in my life. It made me who I am, in the best way possible. Everyone should be able to experience that, especially in youth and amateur sports.