Nebraska softball phenom Jordy Bahl makes feelings clear after state passes major law protecting women's sports
Softball phenom Jordy Bahl expressed her delight after a key piece of legislation was passed in Nebraska regarding women's sports. On Wednesday, Governor Jim Pillen signed a law that banned male-born students from participating in girls' and women's sports in the state.
Bahl, who is a native Nebraskan and has represented the Cornhuskers softball team since 2024, shared the vindication she felt after the law was enacted.
"Words can not describe how proud I am to be a Nebraskan, and how proud I am to live in a state whose leaders stand with women. Yesterday, it became law in Nebraska that men can not compete in women’s sports," said Bahl in an Instagram post.
"Getting to wear Nebraska across my chest on the softball field is an honor, but utilizing the platform God has given me to fight for what’s right, especially in my home state, is the greatest honor."
Nebraska became the 25th state with a decree protecting biological women in amateur and professional sports. In February, President Donald Trump signed an executive order regarding the banning of transgender athletes in women's sports.
Bahl is the reigning Big Ten Player and Pitcher of the Year, the first player to accomplish the feat in the conference's history. After dominating during her high school years at Papillion-La Vista Senior HS in Nebraska, the pitcher took her talents to Oklahoma, where she spent two seasons.
The 22-year-old won two Women's College World Series titles with the Sooners, along with two First Team All-American selections, and a plethora of other honors. She moved back to her home state's Cornhuskers ahead of the 2024 season and was named the NFCA National Player of the Year.
Jordy Bahl selected as 'Nebraska Admiral'
On the same day as the passing of the law, Jordy Bahl was awarded the "Admiral in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska" honor.
The award is regarded as the highest civic honor in Nebraska, reserved for individuals who have made contributions to the state. Notable recipients of the award include legendary talk show host Johnny Carson, astronaut Clayton Anderson, and former president Gerald Ford.