Canadian Transgender College Basketball Player Speaks Out About Verbal, Physical Mistreatment

Harriette Mackenzie, a 21-year-old forward for Vancouver Island University (VIU), is speaking out about alleged verbal and physical targeting by opponents during a recent game against Columbia Bible College (CBC). Mackenzie, a transgender athlete, claims that after excelling in the first game, CBC coach Taylor Claggett voiced objections to her playing against women. In the following game, Mackenzie says she was physically targeted by CBC players, sharing video footage where she was forcefully thrown to the ground away from the ball. Despite this, Mackenzie’s team, the VIU Mariners, won both games.

Mackenzie expressed pride in her story, emphasizing the need for acceptance in sports. "Queer, trans, and nonbinary people belong in sport," she shared on social media, adding, "There is zero space in this league for hate, violence, and bigotry." Mackenzie noted that throughout her career, she has often faced opposition from players, coaches, and fans, and that her success is frequently attributed to her being transgender.

In response, CBC released a statement defending Claggett, stating that the coach’s concerns were motivated by player safety. The Pacific Western Conference (PACWEST) also commented, affirming that all student-athletes deserve a harassment-free, inclusive environment. PACWEST follows Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association guidelines on transgender athlete participation, which include specific testosterone and hormone regulations.

Alberta has recently introduced legislation that would require competitive eligibility to be determined by birth-assigned sex, with options for mixed-gender divisions, a measure it says aims to preserve the integrity of women’s sports.

Mackenzie, who started transitioning at a young age, explained that she has never undergone male puberty and, therefore, feels she competes at a biological disadvantage. She noted that she has a much lower testosterone level than other athletes, adding that her success stems from hard work and a love for the game.

Last season, Mackenzie played in Calgary but returned to VIU after facing transphobic comments from a teammate. She has since found a supportive environment at VIU, where she helped lead her team to a national championship in 2023. Reflecting on her experience at VIU, Mackenzie shared, “This is how I remember basketball feeling and how I remember enjoying it.”