Athletes, Coaches, Educators and Lawmakers Clash Over Sex-Based Terms Bill

Pro athletes from Arizona weigh in on legislation defining sex-based terms, sparking debate over protections for women's spaces and fairness in competition.

“I am a swim coach. I have a co-ed team. I have girls all in swimsuits, boys all in Speedos.

"I cannot imagine putting young men into heats and races with my young, 14-18-year-old girls. That would be extremely unfair."

Kristine Nelson | Arizona Swim Coach and Retired Educator

Swim Coach and Retired Educator Supports HB 2062 - Sex-Based Terms

On March 5, 2025, retired teacher and high school swimming coach Kristine Nelson spoke before the Arizona Senate Committee on Government, voicing support for HB 2062, which seeks to define sex-based terms in state law.