In the dynamic world of collegiate athletics, few figures have sparked as much discussion and reflection as Brooke Slusser. As the co-captain and setter for the San Jose State University (SJSU) women’s volleyball team, Slusser has distinguished herself not only through her athletic prowess but also through her advocacy for fairness and safety in women’s sports.
Early Life and Athletic Beginnings
Born on January 9, 2003, in Denton, Texas, Brooke Slusser‘s passion for volleyball was evident from a young age. She attended Denton Guyer High School, where she showcased exceptional talent on the court. Her high school career was marked by numerous accolades, including being named a 2021 PrepVolleyball All-American and a 2020 Under Armour All-American and All-Region honoree. Additionally, in 2019, she earned the title of District Hitter of the Year and was listed on the AVCA Phenom List. Slusser also played club volleyball for Texas Advantage Volleyball, contributing to multiple national championships and solidifying her reputation as a rising star in the sport.
Collegiate Career at the University of Alabama
Slusser began her collegiate journey at the University of Alabama, where she continued to excel as a setter. In her freshman year (2021), she played in 29 matches, making an immediate impact. She achieved her first double-double with 22 assists and 10 digs against LSU and recorded a season-high 49 assists in a five-set victory over Missouri. Her consistent performance earned her a spot on the Bama Bash All-Tournament Team.
The following year, Slusser’s momentum continued. She participated in 13 matches, achieving over 40 assists in multiple games. Notably, she recorded a season-high 44 assists and 12 digs against TCU, further highlighting her critical role on the team.
Transition to San Jose State University
Seeking new challenges and opportunities, Slusser transferred to San Jose State University. In her debut season with the Spartans, she quickly established herself as a key player. Serving as the primary setter, she averaged 6.55 assists, 2.19 digs, 0.33 aces, and 0.74 kills per set over 115 sets. Her versatility was on full display when she achieved a triple-double against Colorado State, recording 10 kills, 19 assists, and 16 digs—a rare feat in collegiate volleyball. This outstanding performance earned her an honorable mention on the All-Mountain West team.
Advocacy for Fairness in Women’s Sports
Beyond her on-court achievements, Slusser has become a prominent voice in the discussion surrounding fairness in women’s athletics. In September 2024, she joined a lawsuit challenging NCAA guidelines that permit transgender women to compete in women’s sports. Slusser expressed concerns about safety and competitive equity, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a level playing field for female athletes.
Her stance has not been without controversy. The inclusion of a transgender teammate on the SJSU volleyball team led to debates within the athletic community. Slusser voiced her concerns, stating, “I just don’t think it’s right in women’s sports. It has nothing to do with the way someone wants to live their life day to day… But when it comes to the fairness and safety of women playing, there’s a reason there’s two different divisions for women and men.”
This advocacy has brought both support and criticism. Some teams chose to forfeit matches against SJSU in protest, while others have engaged in broader discussions about inclusivity and fairness in sports.
Leadership Amidst Controversy
Throughout these challenges, Slusser has remained a steadfast leader for her team. As co-captain, she has navigated the complexities of team dynamics, public scrutiny, and personal beliefs. Her commitment to her principles, combined with her dedication to her teammates, underscores her resilience and leadership qualities.
In response to the suspension of an assistant coach who filed a Title IX complaint related to the controversy, Slusser remarked, “My assistant coach spoke truth to protect my team. Then… they (suspend) her. They took away the only safe space we had in the program. Because she knew that it was right to stand up for the 18 women on the team. Not one man.”
Looking Ahead
As Brooke Slusser continues her collegiate career, her impact on and off the court remains significant. Her journey reflects the broader conversations happening in sports today—balancing inclusivity with fairness, individual rights with collective responsibilities, and personal beliefs with team cohesion.
In the ever-evolving landscape of collegiate athletics, Slusser’s story serves as a testament to the challenges and opportunities that come with being a student-athlete in the modern era. Her dedication to her sport and her advocacy for what she believes is fair competition will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in the world of women’s volleyball.
For a more in-depth perspective on Brooke Slusser’s views and the surrounding controversy, you can watch the following video:
