Attorneys for Mid Vermont Christian School appeared before the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals seeking to overturn a ruling that barred the school from rejoining the state sports association. The school was expelled after forfeiting a game due to concerns over safety and fairness related to a male player on the opposing team. The school cited religious beliefs as a factor in their decision.
The Alliance Defending Freedom represented the school and Coach Chris Goodwin, arguing that the expulsion violated the players’ First Amendment right to religious practice. Goodwin stated that standing up for what is right comes with a cost but is worth it in the long run. David Cortman of ADF expressed hope that the appeals court would rule in the school’s favor.
U.S. District Court Judge Geoffrey Crawford previously ruled against the school, stating that the sports association’s rules allowed males who identified as females to play in female teams. Crawford found that the association’s rules were applied equally to all schools and did not target Mid Vermont based on religion. He also noted that the school could re-enter the association by agreeing to the rulebook.
The school’s legal battle has been ongoing, with the latest arguments presented before the appeals court in hopes of reversing the ruling and allowing Mid Vermont to rejoin the association while maintaining their religious beliefs. The outcome of the appeal will determine the school’s future participation in state sports.
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