A women's basketball team at Vancouver Island University (VIU) in Canada has refused to play against Columbia Bible College (CBC), citing concerns about the alleged mistreatment of a transgender athlete during a previous match. VIU released a statement condemning intimidation, harassment, and discrimination in sports and affirming their support for their athletes' safety and well-being.

VIU's decision stems from an October 25 game where they allege a CBC coach violated the Coach's Code of Ethics in their interactions with the transgender player. The university has requested that their athletic conference, the Pacific Western Athletic Association (PACWEST), not penalize them for forfeiting the games.

CBC responded with surprise, denying the allegations and stating their commitment to safe play for all. They claim the accusations are untrue and that they had developed a safety plan in collaboration with PACWEST and the Abbotsford Police Department, which included additional security measures, specifically for games involving the trans athlete.

All players on the VIU team signed a letter expressing their discomfort playing at CBC following the October incident. The transgender player, Harriette Mackenzie, posted a video on Instagram alleging that CBC head coach Taylor Clagett confronted a VIU athletic staff member about Mackenzie's participation. Mackenzie also claimed to have been deliberately fouled by a CBC player. Coach Clagett responded with her own Instagram statement, asserting that Mackenzie's account was inaccurate and that her concern was for the safety of female athletes in general.

VIU has filed a formal complaint with PACWEST, and an investigation is underway. VIU maintains that Mackenzie's participation complies with conference policy. PACWEST acknowledged the public attention surrounding transgender athletes in sports and confirmed their adherence to national policies, including the CCAA's policy on transgender student-athlete participation. They also encouraged education on diversity, inclusion, and transgender individuals in sports to foster a safe and inclusive environment for all.