News Summary

Evelyn ‘Evie’ Parts, a former long-distance runner at Swarthmore College, has filed a lawsuit against her college and the NCAA for discrimination. She alleges that her removal from the women’s track and field team due to the NCAA’s policy restricting transgender women from participating in women’s sports has caused her serious emotional distress. Parts claims this ruling is discriminatory and seeks punitive damages and reimbursement for her time as an unattached athlete. The case highlights ongoing issues surrounding equality and the rights of transgender athletes.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – A Legal Battle Unfolds for Transgender Athlete

In a shocking turn of events, Evelyn “Evie” Parts, a former long-distance runner at Swarthmore College, is taking a stand against her college and the NCAA by filing a lawsuit that has raised eyebrows and sparked conversations across the nation. On August 18, 2025, Parts made headlines when she lodged her claim in Pennsylvania’s Eastern District, alleging discrimination after being removed from the women’s track and field team.

The Core of the Lawsuit

Parts alleges that the NCAA’s new policy, which restricts transgender women from participating in women’s sports, is nothing short of bigoted. She argues that this ruling has led to a heightened degree of segregation and ridicule for transgender athletes, which is a serious concern in today’s society. In her lawsuit, she emphasizes that Swarthmore officials not only failed to support her but also denied her the opportunity to compete in a way that they should have protected under Title IX, a vital federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs.

Emotional Toll on a Young Athlete

Parts describes the aftermath of her removal as a profoundly painful experience, claiming it resulted in severe emotional distress. This distress led her to experience feelings that caused her to contemplate self-harm and even suicidal thoughts. It is a poignant reminder of the challenges many athletes, especially those in the transgender community, face when navigating the often turbulent waters of competitive sports.

A Journey through Competition

Evie Parts made a significant transition as she entered high school, fully embracing her identity as a transgender woman during her junior year. By the time she enrolled at Swarthmore in 2020, it was clear she was an emerging star, taking part in both the track and cross-country teams. She showcased her talent from 2023 until her graduation in 2025, ultimately earning the respect of her peers by being named the captain of the women’s track team in the fall of 2024.

The Timing of the Lawsuit

The timing of the lawsuit is particularly intriguing as it comes shortly after an executive order signed by President Donald Trump earlier that February, aimed at restricting transgender women from competing in women’s sports. Following this change, Parts claims Swarthmore proposed options that were less than supportive, including competing in men’s events or as an unattached athlete. The latter meant no access to coaching, travel support, financial assistance, or medical care from the college – a frustrating situation for any dedicated athlete.

Path to Reinstatement

The rocks on this journey were not all smooth, as Parts initially found herself competing unattached in two meets before she was finally reinstated to the women’s track and field team on April 11, 2025. Even after her reinstatement, Parts participated in three additional races, marking her competitive spirit and determination, which included competing in the prestigious Centennial Conference championships.

The College’s Response

Meanwhile, Swarthmore College has expressed its commitment to supporting its transgender community. They emphasized their ongoing effort to adapt to rapidly changing guidelines. However, amid the active litigation, the school has refrained from offering any further comments regarding the particulars of the case.

What Lies Ahead?

In her powerful stand for fairness, Parts is not just concerned about her situation; she is seeking punitive damages for the distress caused and reimbursement for the time she spent as an unattached athlete. As the NCAA remains silent on the pending litigation, many are left wondering how this case will unfold and what it means for the future of transgender athletes across the country.

In a world that is continuously evolving, Evie Parts’ fight sheds light on critical issues surrounding equality, acceptance, and the rights of athletes. As supporters and activists rally around her, the eyes of the nation are now glued to the courtroom, waiting to see how this story will unfold.

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