A 15-year-old Washington state girl, Frances Staudt, is facing disciplinary action after refusing to participate in a basketball game against a transgender athlete. A civil rights complaint filed with the U.S. Department of Education alleges that the Tumwater School District (TSD) is investigating Staudt for "misgendering" and violating district policies on bullying and harassment. The complaint states that Staudt sought clarification from school administrators regarding the athlete's biological sex before the game but was denied her request to have the player removed.

After Staudt withdrew from the game, a TSD employee allegedly confronted her younger brother for filming, warning him to reconsider his actions. Staudt and her mother subsequently appeared on the YouTube show "[un]Divided with Brandie Kruse" to share their perspective, where Staudt revealed she had received threats and negative comments online. Days later, the transgender athlete, Andi Rooks, and their father appeared on the same show. Rooks stated they were unaware of Staudt's discomfort and would have willingly sat out if informed beforehand, adding that they would do so in future games if opponents express similar concerns. Rooks also acknowledged the biological advantages of males in sports and expressed disagreement with transgender women competing in the Olympics.

Rooks' father, Donnie Brooks, defended their child, emphasizing that Rooks had only ever participated in girls' sports. He mentioned voting for Donald Trump, who issued an executive order barring transgender athletes from women's sports. Washington, however, like several other Democrat-led states, opposes this order and permits high school athletes to compete based on gender identity. The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) is considering a proposal to create a separate "open" division for transgender athletes following concerns raised by residents. This proposal aims to ensure fair competition while fostering a supportive environment. The Central Valley School Board has also weighed in on the issue, expressing support for equity and safety in female sports.

This incident follows a May event where a transgender athlete, Veronica Garcia, won a girls cross-country championship, raising further questions about fairness and competition in youth sports.