This year's collegiate volleyball season was highlighted more by controversy than competition. It all centered on Blaire Fleming, a transgender athlete from San Jose State University (SJSU), whose participation sparked debates across the league. Teams like Boise State, Wyoming, and Utah State opted to forfeit matches against SJSU, bringing attention to the issue and sidelining competition. Fleming, who led the Spartans in spikes, played a pivotal role in SJSU's success, driving the team to a winning season despite the turbulence. In total, four Mountain West rivals forfeited seven games, including a tournament semifinal, in protest of Fleming's inclusion.
San Diego State chose a different path. Facing SJSU twice during the regular season, the Aztecs delivered commanding victories of 3-0 and 3-1, proving their focus remained purely on the game, not the headlines. This approach highlighted SDSU's commitment to respect for all competitors, regardless of the surrounding discourse.
As the Mountain West tournament unfolded, SJSU entered as the second seed with a 12-6 conference record, while SDSU held the fifth seed at 11-7. While some teams forfeited matches to avoid playing against Fleming, the Aztecs stood their ground, embracing every match with determination. They announced that they would play SJU again in the tournament if it came to be. Unfortunately, SDSU’s performance culminated in a hard-fought semifinal against top-seeded Colorado State. Despite their resilience and grit, the Aztecs fell short of advancing to the championship.
San Diego State chose a different path. Facing SJSU twice during the regular season, the Aztecs delivered commanding victories of 3-0 and 3-1, proving their focus remained purely on the game, not the headlines. This approach highlighted SDSU's commitment to respect for all competitors, regardless of the surrounding discourse.
As the Mountain West tournament unfolded, SJSU entered as the second seed with a 12-6 conference record, while SDSU held the fifth seed at 11-7. While some teams forfeited matches to avoid playing against Fleming, the Aztecs stood their ground, embracing every match with determination. They announced that they would play SJU again in the tournament if it came to be. Unfortunately, SDSU’s performance culminated in a hard-fought semifinal against top-seeded Colorado State. Despite their resilience and grit, the Aztecs fell short of advancing to the championship.
Ultimately, SJU's volleyball team also saw their bid for the Mountain West Conference championship come to an end at the hands of Colorado State. The Spartans were defeated in four sets in front of a modest crowd of about 200 spectators.
Though their season ended earlier than hoped, SDSU emerged as a beacon of sportsmanship and perseverance. Their refusal to shy away from obstacles underscored the essence of true leadership: competing with dignity, no matter the circumstances. As the Aztecs look ahead to next season, they carry with them the strength and resolve that defined this year, ready to take on any challenge with the same unwavering pride.
Though their season ended earlier than hoped, SDSU emerged as a beacon of sportsmanship and perseverance. Their refusal to shy away from obstacles underscored the essence of true leadership: competing with dignity, no matter the circumstances. As the Aztecs look ahead to next season, they carry with them the strength and resolve that defined this year, ready to take on any challenge with the same unwavering pride.
Article By Patrick Buckel
Photo by Derrick Tuskan
Originally published on November 30, 2024.
