At the CIF Southern Section Finals in California, 16-year-old Reese Hogan from Crean Lutheran High School placed second in the triple jump, setting a personal and school record of 37 feet, 2 inches. However, the event drew controversy as Hogan was beaten by transgender athlete AB Hernandez of Jurupa Valley, who clinched first place in both the girls’ long and triple jumps.
After the official podium ceremony, Hogan stepped onto the first-place podium for a photo, drawing praise from conservative influencer Riley Gaines, who referred to her as the “real champ” and criticized Hernandez for competing.
The inclusion of Hernandez, a transgender athlete, in girls’ events has intensified debates over fairness in women’s sports. Critics argue that biological differences can provide competitive advantages, leading to calls for policy reviews within athletic organizations.
Previously, Hogan and other female athletes wore “Protect Girls Sports” shirts during prelims in protest, which officials allegedly forced them to remove under threat of disqualification. The CIF confirmed enforcement of uniform rules but was accused of selectively applying them.
Hogan commented on the matter, saying, “It wasn’t said but it was implied that if I didn’t take my shirt off then and there, then something could potentially happen to my spot, it wasn’t said but it was implied.”
Reese Hogan’s act of stepping onto the first-place podium wasn’t just bold—it was a statement of truth. Despite placing second officially, Hogan shattered both her personal and school records in the triple jump, proving her caliber as a true champion.
Hogan knew she earned that moment, not by identity politics, but by performance. In a climate where young women are expected to stay silent for the sake of inclusivity, Hogan demonstrated courage, clarity, and conviction. Her quiet protest echoed louder than any cheer from the stands—a young athlete honoring the value of hard work, discipline, and the right to compete on a fair playing field.
