**Title:** Kate Fagan Advocates for Transgender Athletes in Final “Around the Horn” Appearance
**Meta Description:** In her last appearance on “Around the Horn,” Kate Fagan champions the rights of transgender athletes, emphasizing the joy of sports for all.
**URL Slug:** kate-fagan-transgender-athletes-around-the-horn
**Headline:** Kate Fagan Makes Impactful Statement for Transgender Athletes in Final “Around the Horn” Episode
In a poignant farewell, Kate Fagan made her final appearance on ESPN’s “Around the Horn” this past Thursday, as the show prepares to conclude later this month. Fagan, a seasoned writer and former college basketball player at the University of Colorado, has been a familiar face on the program since joining ESPN in 2012. Although she departed the network in 2018, she continued to contribute to the show until its impending cancellation.
During her last episode, Fagan faced off against Jemele Hill, who returned to the show after her own hiatus. Fagan emerged as the episode’s “winner,” a title that typically allows the victor to deliver a brief monologue. Seizing the opportunity, Fagan expressed her gratitude for the platform the show provided, stating, “Being on this show has been a privilege and a platform.”
In a heartfelt message, Fagan advocated for the inclusion of transgender athletes in sports. “I know it’s my last time on it, and I want to say something worthy of that platform, and that’s trans kids deserve to play sports,” she asserted. Fagan reflected on the joy and sense of belonging that sports bring, emphasizing that these experiences transcend gender. “Sports is joy. Sports is humanity. And the more people who have that, the better,” she concluded.
The discussion surrounding transgender athletes in sports has gained significant attention, particularly following an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump in February, which restricts biological males identifying as females from competing against biological females. Despite this, Fagan’s message highlighted the importance of inclusivity and the fundamental right of all children to participate in sports.
The cancellation of “Around the Horn,” announced by ESPN in March, has sparked various opinions, including comments from former panelist Jay Mariotti, who suggested that the show’s shift in focus contributed to its demise. As the show approaches its final episodes, Fagan’s advocacy for transgender athletes serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing conversation about inclusivity in sports.
As “Around the Horn” wraps up its more than 20-year run, Fagan’s impactful message will resonate with viewers and advocates alike, reinforcing the notion that sports should be a space for everyone.
**FAQ:**
**Q: What did Kate Fagan advocate for during her final appearance on “Around the Horn”?**
A: Kate Fagan advocated for the rights of transgender athletes, emphasizing that all children deserve the opportunity to participate in sports and experience the joy and sense of belonging that comes with it.
