Indianapolis, Indiana - The NCAA has said it "firmly and unequivocally supports" the opportunity for transgender athletes to participate in college sports as a growing number of states have moved to exclude trans students from sports.

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) released a statement Monday reaffirming its support for transgender student-athletes playing for teams that align with their gender identity.

"Inclusion and fairness can coexist for all student-athletes, including transgender athletes, at all levels of sport," the statement said.

"Our clear expectation as the Association’s top governing body is that all student-athletes will be treated with dignity and respect."

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In addition, NCAA events may be pulled from states with anti-transgender laws, the organization suggested.

"When determining where championships are held, NCAA policy directs that only locations where hosts can commit to providing an environment that is safe, healthy and free of discrimination should be selected," the organization said.

"We will continue to closely monitor these situations to determine whether NCAA championships can be conducted in ways that are welcoming and respectful of all participants."

The move comes after over 20 states have introduced anti-trans bills this year alone, with the right of young trans people to participate in school sports being a particular target.