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Gymnastics Competition Refuses Full Religious Accommodation for 7 Year Old

By Howard M. Friedman

North Jersey's The Record today reports on the issues faced by a 7-year old Jewish gymnast when New Jersey gymnastic competition officials refused to accommodate her Sabbath observance. Amalya Knapp, a second grader at Yeshiva of North Jersey was, for religious reasons, unable to compete in the Saturday afternoon events.  She will compete in four events today, but her scores will not count toward any individual titles or rankings for her. If her scores are high enough they will be added to her team's overall score and could help the team win. Leslie King, a spokeswoman for USA Gymnastics nationally, said that events are scheduled at the most convenient times for athletes. She explained: "We certainly understand how these conflicts can affect an athlete's participation and do our best to provide alternate opportunities, when possible." [Thanks to Joel Katz (Relig. & State In Israel) for the lead.]

Full post as published by Religion Clause on February 13, 2011 (boomark / email).