The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) announced Wednesday that it remains in full compliance with President Donald Trump’s executive order on women’s sports, following a federal judge’s dismissal of a Title IX lawsuit filed by former swimmer Riley Gaines and the Independent Council on Women’s Sports (ICONS).
Judge’s Ruling Clears NCAA of Title IX Liability
U.S. District Judge Tiffany R. Johnson granted summary judgment to the NCAA on the remaining Title IX claims, concluding that the organization does not receive federal financial assistance that would trigger Title IX liability. The decision hinged on the NCAA’s research partnership with the Department of Defense, which the court found to involve separate funding streams and no direct federal money flowing to the NCAA.
“There is no evidence that the NCAA ever received, or could have received, federal funds,” Judge Johnson wrote. “Thus, Plaintiffs’ Title IX claims cannot proceed.”
NCAA Highlights Compliance With Trump Administration Policy
In a statement released after the ruling, the NCAA said it is “proud to continually invest in and expand women’s sports” and affirmed that it is “in full compliance with the Trump administration’s executive order on women’s sports.” The order, signed on Feb. 5, 2025, directs federal agencies to enforce Title IX based on biological sex and required the NCAA to revise its participation rules.
Following the order, the NCAA changed its policy the next day, limiting competition on women’s teams to athletes assigned female at birth. The current rules allow athletes assigned male at birth to practice with women’s teams and receive medical care, but they cannot compete in women’s events.
Critics’ Response and Appeal Plans
ICONS, the group that funded the lawsuit, responded on social media, calling the NCAA’s statement “empty words on a page” and accusing the organization of offering “no promises to women, no assurances, no accountability.” ICONS co‑founder Marshi Smith warned that the NCAA “cannot be trusted to regulate anyone’s sports — men’s or women’s” and urged Congress to oppose the Protect College Sports Act, which would give the NCAA additional authority.
Gaines, a former Kentucky swimmer who tied with Lia Thomas at the 2022 NCAA Division I Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships, said she will appeal the decision to the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. “This momentary setback will not deter me or other women athletes in the least,” she said.
Why This Matters for Families and Communities
For parents and student‑athletes across the country, the ruling reinforces a clear, biologically‑based definition of women’s sports that aligns with traditional family values and protects the integrity of competition. By upholding President Trump’s order, the NCAA is helping ensure that girls compete on a level playing field, preserving opportunities for scholarships, college admissions, and lifelong health benefits tied to fair athletic participation.
Supporters argue that the decision safeguards the safety and privacy of female athletes in locker rooms and competition venues, a concern repeatedly raised by parents and community leaders. The administration’s stance also reflects a broader commitment to parental rights and the Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection under the law.
Next Steps
The appeal could bring the case before the 11th Circuit, where judges will consider whether the NCAA’s collaboration with the Defense Department or other federally funded entities might still subject the organization to Title IX. Regardless of the outcome, the NCAA’s current policy remains in effect, and the organization continues to promote women’s sports while adhering to the Trump administration’s directive.
Stakeholders, including college coaches, athletic directors, and parents, are encouraged to monitor the appellate process and stay informed about any further policy adjustments that may arise.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
