The college sports federation holds such an annual election, which honors female athletes who have drawn attention to themselves in a special way through their achievements or their social involvement. Universities may nominate candidates themselves.
Thomas’ nomination caused a lot of fuss on social media, after her participation in women’s swimming competitions was not supported by everyone.
Lia Thomas after winning the 500-yard freestyle at the NCAA Finals.
AP
Conservative Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene tweeted furiously.
Former top swimmer Nancy Lynn Hogshead, who won three golds and one silver during the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, is also short and clear about the nomination: “No.”
Thomas won the women’s 500-yard swim in the last NCAA games, where she competed in the men’s competitions until 2019. Her participation was described as ‘not fair’ by female swimmers.
After this controversy, the swimming federation FINA determined, among other things, that transgender swimmers may only participate in women’s competitions if they have made the transition at the age of 12.
Thomas is also supported by many people. She met NCAA criteria, retired from swimming for a year after transitioning as required, and won the NCAA title in a race she was eligible to compete in. Then a nomination is only logical, they believe.