Pregnant Softball Player Says Waiver Rule Is Discriminatory

A pregnant Thousand Oaks woman who plays softball in the Conejo Recreation and Park District is protesting the agency’s requirement that expectant mothers obtain permission waivers from physicians before they can play.

“It’s a blatant disregard of women’s rights,” said Merry Nell Colborn, who is three months pregnant and has played softball for nearly 15 years, including when she was pregnant with her first child.

“It’s a rule that has been on the books since 1971, and it just doesn’t fit today,” said Colborn, 39. Colborn said several pregnant women play softball in her league.

The issue surfaced during a game on Feb. 23 after Colborn told friends and teammates that she was pregnant. The umpire and her team manager approached her during the game and informed her of the rule requiring a doctor-endorsed liability release.

Colborn contends that the rule discriminates against pregnant women because they are the only people required to get a medical release. The two liability waivers that she and her team members signed at the beginning of the season should be enough, she said.

“Pregnant women are well-aware of the risks involved, and we don’t take any chances that may affect our pregnancies,” Colborn said.

Colborn said her physician, a sponsor of her team, knows that she plays softball and never told her not to play. Colborn said her softball manager supports her and will allow her to play without the waiver.

Steve Wiley, recreation services manager of the Conejo park district, said park officials will work with Colborn to resolve the issue.

Thousand Oaks obstetrician Joseph David said he informs his pregnant patients of the dangers involved in playing sports but doesn’t restrict them from doing so. However, he said he understands why the district would want a release.

“It’s only logical that they want to protect themselves should something happen to the woman,” David said.

Colborn said she will continue to play softball because exercising is good for her and keeps her muscles in shape for childbirth.