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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 7, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: info@gsafewi.org
New Research Brief Highlights Disparities in Athletic Participation Among Transgender and Cisgender Youth in Wisconsin Schools
A new research brief reveals significant disparities in physical activity and athletic participation among transgender and questioning youth in Wisconsin schools. Led by Dr. Mollie McQuillan – and in partnership with GSAFE and Fair Wisconsin – the brief describes findings from an analysis of over 300,000 student responses collected through the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) and Dane County Youth Assessment since 2018.
The findings of the team’s study shows that transgender and questioning students consistently report lower levels of physical activity and sports participation compared to their cisgender peers. In 2024, cisgender youth participated in school-sponsored sports at more than twice the rate of transgender students.
“Participation in sports and physical education is not just about fitness—it’s about belonging, confidence, and mental health,” said Dr. McQuillan. “This data helps us understand where barriers exist and how schools can better support all students.”
The brief also contextualizes these disparities within ongoing political debates. Since 2021, Wisconsin lawmakers have proposed statewide bans on transgender students’ participation in athletics every legislative session. The politicization of trans youth may be contributing to declining engagement and increased marginalization of transgender students in high school athletics.
“The widening gap in participation is deeply concerning,” said Brian Juchems of GSAFE. “Schools must adopt inclusive sports policies that affirm students’ identities and promote equitable access.”
The report calls for school leaders to implement gender-inclusive athletic policies and practices that foster safe, affirming environments for all students. It also encourages educators to use the data to support evidence-based protections in school boards and legislatures.
About GSAFE: GSAFE is a statewide organization working to create safer and more inclusive schools for LGBTQ+ students, educators, and families in Wisconsin. Through policy advocacy, educational resources, and community organizing, GSAFE supports efforts to ensure all students can learn and thrive in environments free from discrimination and harassment.
An electronic version of this news release can be found under the GSAFE news tab: https://gsafewi.org/news/.
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