EXCLUSIVE: Volleyball Coach Gets Suspended

Suspended SJSU Volleyball Coach Claims School is Trying to ‘Silence’ Her

“I walked into the building and was headed to the gym when I was approached by administration, who asked to speak with me outside,” said Batie-Smoose.

At that moment, she was informed by SJSU officials that she was suspended indefinitely and had to surrender her keys and school ID. She was not allowed to collect her belongings from her office, instructed to leave campus immediately, and told not to return until further notice.

“They told me I’d have to contact personnel later to retrieve my things from my office,” she explained.

Officials handed her an envelope containing her suspension notice and directed her not to communicate with the media or any players on the San Jose State volleyball team. However, Batie-Smoose expressed her desire to speak with OutKick despite the restrictions.

“This is part of what San Jose State has been trying to do—silence those who advocate for their First Amendment rights and what’s right,” she stated.

Batie-Smoose emphasized her commitment to advocating for women’s sports.

“I want to ensure that I stand firm in saying only women should compete in women’s sports,” she said. “I want to protect women’s sports and the members of our team… I’m worried about Brooke Slusser and the majority of the team because their voices and feelings are being disregarded by San Jose State University.”

Despite her absence, the San Jose State team won against New Mexico 3-1 on Saturday, demonstrating remarkable resilience, especially since many players were shocked and emotional after learning about their assistant coach’s suspension just 90 minutes before the match.

Regarding her future, there is no clear timeline for Batie-Smoose, and her return this season appears unlikely.

“Right now, I’m considering all my options,” she said.

The team has five regular-season games left and is expected to qualify for the Mountain West conference tournament.

If they win the Mountain West tournament starting November 27, they would advance to the NCAA Tournament; if not, their season may come to an end