Illinois’ Inclusive Athletic Attire Act was first of its kind in the US. But some athletes say there is still confusion on the courts

CHICAGO -- Fatima Saiyada arrived at the gym on a mid-September Saturday during her freshman volleyball season, ready to compete. Every Saturday, her Northside College Prep team participated in volleyball tournaments at Von Steuben High School. Her coach was planning to have her start. She was excited.

Then she was benched.

A referee said Saiyada could not compete because the long-sleeve shirt she was wearing underneath her jersey to respect her Islamic identity was white and did not match the team’s black jersey. Saiyada said she’d worn the white undershirt at the tournament the previous week and was allowed to compete, but this referee didn’t budge and Saiyada had to sit out.