High School Wrestler Forfeits Matches Due to Personal Beliefs, Sparks Debate
In a decision that reignited discussions about gender and sports, Colorado high school wrestler Brendan Johnston chose to forfeit two state tournament matches in 2018 rather than compete against female opponents.
His decision, based on personal and religious beliefs, effectively ended his high school wrestling career.
Johnston, a senior at The Classical Academy in Colorado Springs at the time, was scheduled to face Jaslynn Gallegos of Skyview High in the first round and later Angel Rios of Valley High in a consolation match.
However, he declined both bouts, citing concerns over the physical nature of wrestling and his views on male-female competition.
“It’s so physical, physically close. I don’t think that’s really appropriate with a young lady,” Johnston told KDVR in an interview.
“It’s also very aggressive, and I’m not really comfortable with that.”
He further explained that his perspective stemmed from both his Christian faith and the way he was raised to respect women.
While emphasizing that he views men and women as equals, he noted that he believes they are fundamentally different in certain respects.
His decision was met with mixed reactions.
Supporters commended him for standing by his principles, while others argued that gender should not be a barrier in sports. Gallegos, his would-be opponent, expressed disappointment but said she respected his choice.
“For me, wrestling is about proving that I’m just a wrestler, not about my gender,” she told The Washington Post at the time.
As a result of his forfeits, Johnston placed sixth in the tournament, while Gallegos and Rios secured fourth and fifth place, respectively.
His decision continues to be part of a larger conversation on gender dynamics in competitive sports, highlighting the balance between personal beliefs and evolving inclusivity in athletics.
