A change in venue has been announced for the women’s volleyball match between Nevada and San Jose State, which was originally scheduled to take place in Reno, Nevada, but will now be held in San Jose, California. This decision was made by both schools in a joint statement, with the approval of the Mountain West Conference. The schools emphasized that the well-being of the student-athletes, coaches, athletic staff, and spectators was the primary reason behind this change.
Prior to this venue change, a group of Nevada players had expressed concerns about their safety and fair competition, stating that they would not participate in what was supposed to be their home game against San Jose State. Despite this, the school had reiterated its commitment to holding the match, as state law prohibits forfeiture based on gender identity or expression-related reasons.
There is still a possibility that the match could result in a forfeit if Nevada decides not to play. Nevada is also scheduled to play against Fresno State on Thursday, adding to the anticipation surrounding the outcome of the upcoming games.
San Jose State has faced cancellations from four different teams this season, including Southern Utah, Boise State, Wyoming, and Utah State. The reasons behind these cancellations have not been explicitly stated by the schools involved, with speculation suggesting that the decision could be related to protecting women’s sports, as hinted by political figures from Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah.
Mountain West commissioner Gloria Nevarez expressed her disappointment over the challenges faced by San Jose State and its opponents this season. The situation has raised concerns about the impact on the overall sports schedule and the experiences of the teams involved.
The relocation of the Nevada vs. San Jose State women’s volleyball match highlights the complexities and considerations involved in ensuring a safe and competitive environment for student-athletes. The decision reflects the ongoing efforts to address various issues within collegiate sports, such as gender equity, fair competition, and the well-being of all participants. As the teams prepare to face each other in a new setting, the focus remains on delivering a positive and meaningful experience for everyone involved in the upcoming match.
