In the serene setting of Bridgeport, West Virginia, a high school sophomore prepares to make her mark in the discus throw. Becky Pepper-Jackson, a transgender athlete, is not just focusing on improving her performance but also on enjoying her time with her friends despite the controversies surrounding her participation in girls’ sports.
Her journey, however, is not only about sports. Becky finds herself at the center of a significant legal battle that could set a precedent for transgender athletes across the nation. The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to make a crucial decision by early summer on whether trans girls can compete in girls’ sports teams.
A Legal Challenge from a Young Age
Back in 2021, Becky, then only 11, challenged a West Virginia law prohibiting transgender athletes from participating in female sports in educational institutions. The legal proceedings allowed her to continue competing while the case remained unresolved. As of 2023, the Supreme Court, known for its conservative tilt, seems poised to rule that such state bans do not contravene either the Constitution or Title IX, the federal law prohibiting sex discrimination in education.
In a related case, the Supreme Court is also considering a challenge from Idaho brought by Lindsay Hecox, who sought to join women’s track teams at Boise State University but did not make the cut.
In West Virginia, Becky is the only transgender athlete seeking to compete in girls’ sports. The outcome of the court’s decision could make this season her last.
“I can’t make their decisions for them, so I just have to wait and see what they’ll say,” Becky expressed, focusing on her present rather than the potential implications of the legal battle.
West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey remains confident in the state’s stance, asserting, “West Virginia’s law does not exclude anyone; it simply says biological boys will compete against boys, and biological girls will compete against girls.”
Early Awareness of Identity
Identifying publicly as a girl since the age of 8, Becky has always been supported by her mother, Heather Jackson, who recognized her daughter’s unique preferences early on. “I noticed immediately that Becky was different,” Heather recalls, citing Becky’s early interest in traditionally feminine items.
To prevent male puberty, Becky began taking puberty blockers before reaching adolescence. Aubrey Sparks from the ACLU’s West Virginia chapter clarified, “Becky did not undergo male puberty,” challenging claims that transgender athletes have an inherent advantage.
By high school, Becky had shifted her athletic focus from track running to field events, where she made notable achievements in discus and shot put.
The spotlight has not always been welcoming. In 2024, athletes from a rival school refused to compete against her, and in 2025, a victorious sprinter publicly displayed her disapproval at a state meet. Despite the controversies, Becky continues to perform, winning her first two events this season.
Off the field, Becky is determined to pursue a career in music as a band director.
Inspiration from Peers
Becky finds inspiration in other transgender athletes who have succeeded, such as AB Hernandez, who triumphed at the California state high school meet, and Verónica Garcia, a two-time 400-meter state champion in Washington. The success of these athletes has reignited debates about the inclusion of transgender athletes in sports.
California permits students to participate based on their gender identity, a policy that has faced criticism but remains in place. The backlash from Hernandez’s achievements even led to unprecedented rule changes to accommodate additional competitors.
Support from Family
Becky’s mother remains her steadfast supporter, often seen cheering her on and reflecting on Becky’s composure amidst the legal and social challenges. Heather Jackson expresses admiration for her daughter’s resilience: “Becky has handled the attention and scrutiny of her case with astounding grace and intelligence.”
Despite the ongoing legal battle, Becky remains focused on what she loves, concluding, “Transgender girls should be able to be on the girls’ sports team. I think that’s simple.”
