The University of Pennsylvania has nominated transgender swimmer Lia Thomas, who is biologically male and self-identifies as a woman, for the 2022 NCAA Woman of the Year award.

The NCAA announced all 577 nominees — up to two female student-athletes per eligible school — on Thursday.

The award was established in 1991 and meant to recognize “female student-athletes who have exhausted their eligibility and distinguished themselves in their community, in athletics and in academics throughout their college careers.”

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Thomas, 22, competed on the men’s team at the University of Pennsylvania before coming out as transgender in 2019 and starting testosterone blockers and estrogen. Last year, the swimmer competed on the women’s team, sparking a national debate. In March, Thomas won the NCAA Division I national championship after winning the women’s 500-yard freestyle event.

Some teammates have spoken out over the inclusion of Thomas, due to physical advantages the athlete has as a biological male.

Read more: Daily Wire