Colorado High School Wrestler Forfeits Matches Against Female Opponents, Citing Religious and Personal Beliefs
Brendan Johnston, a high school senior wrestler from Colorado, made a deeply personal decision that has drawn national attention. During the state wrestling tournament, Johnston chose to forfeit two matches rather than compete against female opponents, citing his Christian faith and personal convictions as the driving force behind his choice.
Johnston’s first forfeit came in the opening round of the tournament, where he was scheduled to wrestle Jaslynn Gallegos, one of a growing number of female athletes competing in what has traditionally been a male-dominated sport. Later in the tournament, Johnston again declined to take the mat in a consolation match against another female wrestler, Angel Rios. By forfeiting both matches, Johnston effectively ended his high school wrestling career.
In interviews, Johnston explained that his decision was not rooted in disrespect or a belief that female athletes are less capable, but rather in his personal values. He said he felt that physically grappling with a female competitor conflicted with his principles regarding physical contact, modesty, and how he believes men and women should interact.
“It’s not something I’m trying to make a big scene about. It’s just a personal decision,” Johnston said in a statement to local media. “I want to respect women, and I don’t want to treat them the same way I would treat a male competitor in that setting. Wrestling is a very physical sport, and it just didn’t sit right with me.”
Johnston emphasized that he holds deep respect for the skill, dedication, and athleticism of his female opponents, and his choice was not meant as a protest against their participation. “They work just as hard as the guys do,” he said. “This is simply about me staying true to what I believe.”
His decision has stirred mixed reactions. Some have praised Johnston for standing firm in his faith and values, commending his willingness to give up a potential place on the podium for the sake of his beliefs. Others have criticized the move as potentially undermining the legitimacy and inclusion of female athletes in the sport.
Gallegos and Rios, the wrestlers Johnston was matched against, have also spoken publicly about the situation. Both expressed disappointment in not being able to compete but acknowledged Johnston’s right to make decisions based on his beliefs. They also emphasized the importance of continuing to break barriers for women in wrestling and ensuring equal opportunities on the mat.
Johnston’s case highlights broader conversations taking place across the country about gender roles in sports, religious expression, and the evolving norms of athletic competition. As girls’ participation in wrestling continues to rise—along with discussions around gender equity—instances like this spark important, and often difficult, discussions about how to balance inclusion, respect, and personal conviction in high school athletics.
Whether one agrees with Johnston’s stance or not, his decision reflects the complex interplay between faith, ethics, and modern sports—and underscores how athletes often face difficult choices far beyond wins and losses.
