The Indonesian Volleyball Federation explained that the middle blocker was excluded from the national women's volleyball team because she refused to undergo gender verification as required by FIVB rules.
Jakarta,Beritasatu.comIndonesian media reported that "Junayda Santi," a middle blocker, has not rejoined Indonesia's women's national volleyball team for several international competitions because she refused to undergo gender verification.
Ludri Maspitella, Deputy Head of Performance at the Indonesian Volleyball Federation (PBVSI), revealed that Santi's absence was not due to punishment from the federation but because she had not complied with the gender verification process required for female athletes registering for international competitions.
Ludri stated that all female athletes competing internationally must undergo this verification, and if they refuse, they cannot be registered or participate in those events. He emphasized that the rule is not designed to target Santi specifically but is a standard requirement for international competitions.
PBVSI noted that Santi is a talented player and an important asset for Indonesia's national team. However, the federation cannot submit her name for international competitions unless she completes the required procedures.
Previously, PBVSI attempted private discussions with Santi to encourage her to undergo the verification, involving a psychologist to assist, recognizing the highly personal nature of the matter.
Nevertheless, despite these discussions and efforts to persuade her, Santi continues to refuse the gender verification, preventing her from returning to international competition.
Ludri also expressed sympathy for Santi, who has faced ridicule and public scrutiny, affirming that PBVSI wants talented players like her back on the national team but stresses that compliance with competition rules is essential.
Photo credit: beritasatu