FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 1, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT

SarahJohnson@ltgov.nv.gov

Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony Applauds NIAA Vote to Protect Fairness in Girls’ Sports

Las Vegas, NV — Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony today praised the Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) Board for voting to adopt a new sex-based policy that ensures high school girls can compete in a protected category reserved exclusively for female athletes. The decision marks a significant step forward in protecting the integrity, safety, and fairness of girls’ athletics in Nevada.


“I commend the NIAA for taking this important and courageous step,” said Lieutenant Governor Anthony. “Today’s vote sends a clear message: Nevada values and protects opportunities for female athletes. Girls deserve a level playing field, and this action helps ensure they can compete, grow, and succeed without having to compromise safety or fairness.”


The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that girls' sports are more than just competition—they are a powerful source of confidence, leadership, and lifelong opportunity. From building resilience and teamwork to earning scholarships and national recognition, participation in athletics equips young women with essential tools for success on and off the field.


The Task Force to Protect Women’s Sports was formed in 2024 to ensure state-level attention to policies impacting female athletes. Chair Marshi Smith said of today’s victory, “I applaud the NIAA for aligning high school sports policy with federal law to ensure fair competition for Nevada’s girls. The Lieutenant Governor’s Task Force is making a powerful impact, and as a mother and former athlete, I know firsthand how meaningful competition empowers female athletes to succeed in sports and beyond. I’m honored to stand alongside these dedicated advocates for girls’ athletics in the Silver State.”


“Let me be clear, there is a place for everyone in sports. But no one is entitled to a position that takes an opportunity away from someone else,” said Anthony. “Today’s vote is a win for girls across Nevada.”



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The Lieutenant Governor’s Task Force to Protect Women’s Sports includes:

  • Marshi Smith, an NCAA champion swimmer and Henderson resident who is a leading advocate for fairness in sports;
  • Sia Liilii, University of Nevada, Reno Volleyball Player and Independent Women’s Forum Ambassador;
  • Carrie Buck, Nevada State Senator;
  • Bert Gurr, Nevada Assemblyman;
  • Clara Andriola, Washoe County Commissioner;
  • Charlene Bybee, Sparks City Councilwoman;
  • Stephanie Goodman, Nevada System of Higher Education Regent;
  • Deborah Earl, Vice-President & COO of Power2Parent;
  • Kendall Lewis, Galena High School Athlete;
  • Lydia Dominguez, Clark County School District Education Advocate;
  • Shannon Nordstrom, Attorney and Former Hearing Commissioner/Alternate Las Vegas Municipal Court Judge.
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Lieutenant Governor's Office

Northern Nevada

State Capitol Building

101 N. Carson Street, Suite 2

Carson City, NV 89701

Phone: (775) 684-7111

Lieutenant Governor's Office

Southern Nevada

1 State of Nevada Way

3rd Floor

Las Vegas, NV 89119

Phone: (702) 486-2400

www.ltgov.nv.gov

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