Summary
Three Muslim sisters, Jamilah, Zaynah, and Latifah McBryde, helped change the rules of women's wrestling in the U.S. by advocating for the ability to compete while wearing full-body uniforms that meet their religious beliefs. Their efforts, supported by their coaches, led to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) allowing these modified uniforms.
Key Facts
- The McBryde sisters grew up in Buffalo, N.Y., and were homeschooled.
- They faced challenges because they couldn't wrestle boys or wear traditional wrestling singlets due to their faith.
- They created uniforms inspired by those used by Iranian women wrestlers, which included a long-sleeved shirt, leggings under pants, and a head covering.
- Coaches and athletic trainers helped adapt the uniforms using velcro and tape to secure them.
- Latifah was denied participation at the Pan American Championships in 2022 due to uniform restrictions from United World Wrestling.
- Life University coaches actively supported the sisters, promising to push for rule changes.
- In summer 2022, NAIA approved the modified uniforms.
- The sisters started at Life University later that year, finding a supportive team environment.
