WNBA star Sophie Cunningham has been recognized for her outspoken advocacy for women’s sports, earning accolades from young athletes on Fox News. High school athletes Briley Lechner and Ella Frei have expressed admiration for Cunningham’s efforts to protect female sports, underscoring a growing movement for female athletes’ rights amid ongoing national discussions.
“I want to say a huge thank you to Sophie because it’s really brave for her to stand up for young girls like Riley and I,” said Ella Frei, a high school athlete from Wisconsin. Appearing on “Fox & Friends,” Frei and Michigan volleyball player Briley Lechner shared with guest host Kayleigh McEnany the reasons Cunningham’s comments resonated with them.
“I said what I said. I think it’s kind of common sense,” Cunningham stated in response to criticism, affirming her stance. She emphasized the importance of protecting children and highlighted the role of Title IX in ensuring the presence of women in sports.
Frei expressed excitement over Cunningham’s vocal support, feeling encouraged by an athlete with a significant platform willing to address concerns many others avoid. Cunningham’s determination in the face of backlash has emboldened young female athletes like Frei and Lechner, validating their experiences.
Frei is currently engaged in a lawsuit against her school district regarding locker room policies, whereas Lechner recounted competing with and sharing a locker room with a transgender athlete, unbeknownst to her. These athletes assert that the debate over women’s sports is not abstract but a real issue, directly affecting their experiences.
“It is making it 10 times more inspiring, and it’s encouraging me and a lot of other female athletes to speak out,” Lechner stated, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy.
Fox News Digital’s Jackson Thompson contributed to this report. Taylor Penley serves as an associate editor for Fox News Digital and contributor to FOX Business and Fox Nation, focusing on media and culture.
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