ADVOCATES FOR FAITH & FREEDOM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, sEPTEMBER 29, 2025
CONTACT: NICOLE VELASCO
media@FAITH-FREEDOM.COM
Murrieta, CA — In a significant win for female athletes and student rights, the United States District Court for the Central District of California has ruled in favor of plaintiffs T.S., K.S., and Save Girls’ Sports, allowing their core Title IX discrimination claim to proceed against the Riverside Unified School District. The court’s order, issued on September 24, 2025, also confirms that the plaintiffs’ First Amendment free speech claims have survived dismissal, marking a crucial step forward in the fight for equal opportunities and free expression in schools. Additionally, the court granted leave to amend other claims, providing a clear path to strengthen the case and seek full justice.
The plaintiffs filed suit alleging that the District’s actions, including the favorable treatment of a male athlete on the girls’ cross-country team, violated Title IX by discriminating against female athletes. In denying the School Defendants’ motion to dismiss the intentional discrimination claim under Title IX (Claim Four), the court recognized the plaintiffs’ allegations of unequal treatment, such as relaxed attendance policies and individualized coaching provided to the male athlete but not to the female athletes.
“This ruling is a resounding victory for fairness in women’s sports and the protection of free speech,” said Julianne Fleischer, Senior Counsel for Advocates for Faith & Freedom and attorney for the plaintiffs. “The court’s decision to let our key Title IX claim proceed sends a strong message that schools cannot treat the rights of our female athletes as second-class.”
The court also upheld the plaintiffs’ standing to pursue monetary damages, emphasizing in Footnote 7 that the mere operation of California’s AB 1266—allowing transgender athletes to participate in sports consistent with their gender identity—constitutes a cognizable injury under Title IX. This recognition underscores the court’s acknowledgment that even baseline participation policies can harm female athletes’ opportunities, bolstering the plaintiffs’ position as they advance.
“We are one step closer to restoring fairness and safety in girls’ sports,” added Fleischer. “We look forward to holding officials accountable and giving voice to the girls who have been silenced.”
The plaintiffs plan to file an amended complaint by October 15, 2025, addressing the court’s guidance. This case continues to draw national attention, highlighting ongoing debates about equity, free speech, and inclusion in school sports.
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Advocates for Faith & Freedom is a non-profit law firm dedicated to protecting constitutional and religious liberty in the courts. Our mission is to engage in cases that will uphold our religious liberty and America’s heritage and to educate Americans about our fundamental constitutional rights.