A federal judge has denied current and future Quinnipiac women’s rugby players an injunction to reinstate the team. The decision was made after the university demoted the varsity team to a club team in April, citing Title IX compliance and fiscal sustainability as their reasons.

Lawsuit Proceedings

The lawsuit, filed by 23 current and future Quinnipiac women’s rugby players, alleges the university violated Title IX by eliminating opportunities for women’s rugby players. The suit also claims the decision was retaliation for complaints previously raised by the women’s rugby coach and for prior legal action involving the program.

Attorneys for the players argued the evidence supports their allegations and said the university’s decision has caused serious harm by leaving students’ athletic and academic futures in limbo. Quinnipiac attorneys disputed those claims, arguing that the decision was not retaliatory but rather a cost-cutting measure intended to bring the athletic department into compliance with Title IX.

Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.