CPRC Sues CA State University System for Firing Coach Over Fight for Women’s Sports Fairness

On September 19, 2025, the Child & Parental Rights Campaign (CPRC) filed a groundbreaking federal lawsuit on behalf of Melissa Batie-Smoose, former Associate Head Coach of San Jose State University’s (SJSU) Division 1 Women’s Volleyball team, against the California State University System (CSUS). The suit exposes sex discrimination and retaliation in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, revealing CSUS’s failure to protect female athletes and their advocates.

The Case  

Melissa Batie-Smoose joined SJSU with a commitment to fostering a fair and competitive environment for the women on her team. Instead, she uncovered a pattern of discrimination favoring a male athlete identifying as “transgender” on the women’s volleyball team. The lawsuit details:   ‍

Unfair Advantages

The transgender athlete received a full scholarship and played both indoor and beach volleyball, while a top female recruit was denied the same opportunity and lost a promised scholarship.

Double Standards

The male athlete skipped practices, ignored team rules, and left the team hotel without permission, facing no discipline. Female athletes were punished for similar infractions.

Safety and Fairness Violations

The male athlete allegedly shared SJSU’s scouting report with an opposing team and colluded to target teammates for injury yet faced no consequences from Head Coach Todd Kress or SJSU administrators.  

Silencing Dissent

Administrators Laura Alexander and Michelle Smith McDonald instructed Batie-Smoose to conceal the athlete’s biological sex. Female athletes were warned that discussing their concerns could be deemed “transphobic,” leading to disciple and risking their scholarships.

In October 2024, Batie-Smoose filed a Title IX complaint with SJSU, alleging sex discrimination, retaliation, and misconduct, including game-fixing and safety threats. SJSU failed to substantively investigate Ms. Batie-Smoose's claims, showing indifference to female athletes’ rights. On November 1, 2024, Batie-Smoose was suspended, and on December 1, 2024, CSUS refused to renew her contract, despite her exemplary record, in retaliation for her advocacy.  

Legal Claims

CPRC’s lawsuit asserts that CSUS’s actions constitute:

  • Sex Discrimination: By favoring a male athlete and punishing Batie-Smoose for raising concerns, CSUS violated Title IX and Title VII.
  • Retaliation: CSUS’s suspension and termination of Batie-Smoose were direct responses to her Title IX complaint, violating federal law.  

Why This Matters  

This case presents a fundamental question of fairness in women’s sports. CPRC’s representation of Melissa Batie-Smoose challenges institutions that prioritize ideology over truth and equal opportunity, ensuring female athletes and their advocates are protected.  

How You Can Help  

  • Spread the Word: Share Melissa’s story on social media.
  • Support CPRC: Your support fuels our fight for justice. Donate here.

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