B.C. Bible college accused of mistreating trans player no longer hosting basketball provincials
Columbia Bible College asking for review of Pacific Western Athletic Association’s decision
An evangelical Mennonite Bible college in British Columbia that has been accused of mistreating a transgender player says it will no longer be hosting the upcoming men's and women's basketball provincials.
The decision comes after the Pacific Western Athletic Association (PACWEST) concluded its investigation into Columbia Bible College in Abbotsford, B.C., last week.
Last year, Harriette Mackenzie, a Vancouver Island University (VIU) player who is transgender, filed a complaint with PACWEST against Columbia Bible College, alleging she was verbally and physically mistreated by the basketball team's coach and players.
PACWEST has not released the findings of its investigation, only saying that a "decision has been communicated to the relevant parties, and the matter is now considered closed."
PACWEST did not respond to requests for comment from CBC News.
In a statement, Columbia Bible College said it's "deeply disappointed" with PACWEST's decision.
"We do not believe that a proper process was followed or that the results were fair. As a result, we are taking steps to have PACWEST's decision reviewed," the college said.
VIU said in a statement that PACWEST's decision "reinforces the importance of upholding principles of respect, equity, and inclusion with collegiate athletics."
"At VIU, we proudly stand in full support of our student-athletes and affirm the right of all athletes to compete in an environment that prioritizes their safety and well-being."
Allegations of anti-trans 'tirade'
Mackenzie, a forward with the VIU Mariners, spoke out on social media last fall about the alleged mistreatment she faced.
The Mariners (4-0) had won a pair of home games against the Columbia Bible College Bearcats. After the first game, Mackenzie said, Bearcats coach Taylor Claggett went on a "tirade," yelling at a VIU staff member that Mackenzie — who led both teams with 19 points and 16 rebounds — shouldn't be allowed to play against women. A social media account linked to Claggett also posted anti-trans messages after the game.
During the second game a day later, Mackenzie said she was physically targeted by her opponents. She later shared a video from the game where, away from the ball, a Columbia Bible College player tossed her to the floor. Mackenzie finished with 14 points and four rebounds as her team won again.
Columbia Bible College, an evangelical Mennonite Bible college, said at the time that Claggett was "speaking out for the safety of her players like any good coach would do."
Last month, the Mariners skipped out on a pair of games at Columbia Bible College. All 13 Mariners players also signed a letter saying they do not feel safe playing at the college.
"All of us should be free to be ourselves and play the game we love in a supportive and safe environment, including queer and trans athletes," read the letter.
Head coach takes backseat
Claggett took a backseat as Columbia Bible College's head coach this past weekend as the school announced another coach would be taking over for their basketball team's game against Okanagan College Coyotes in Kelowna, B.C.
It's unclear whether the move is connected to PACWEST's investigation or when Claggett will return to being head coach.
The school said Claggett "remains a vital member" of the basketball program and that it looks forward to having her back at courtside as soon as possible.
The men's and women's basketball provincials are scheduled to take place from Feb. 27 to March 1. A new location for the tournament has yet to be announced.
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With files from The Canadian Press