Early Life and Education of Lia Thomas: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Lia Thomas, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Lia Thomas is an American swimmer who gained national attention as the first openly transgender athlete to win an NCAA Division I national championship, winning the 500-yard freestyle in 2022. Her participation in women's swimming sparked significant debate about the inclusion of transgender women in women's sports, particularly regarding fairness and competitive balance. Following policy changes by World Aquatics, Thomas became ineligible to compete in women's events. Her career has been at the forefront of discussions concerning transgender athletes and sports regulations.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

May 1999: Lia Thomas Born

In May 1999, Lia Catherine Thomas was born. She is an American swimmer who later became the first openly transgender athlete to win an NCAA Division I national championship.

Others born on this day/year

2017: Joins UPenn men's swim team

In 2017, Lia Thomas began swimming on the men's team at the University of Pennsylvania. During her freshman year, she achieved notable times in freestyle events.

2017: Attends University of Pennsylvania

In 2017, Lia Thomas started attending the University of Pennsylvania.

2018: Comes out as transgender to family

During the summer of 2018, after her freshman year at college, Lia Thomas came out as transgender to her family.

May 2019: Begins Hormone Replacement Therapy

In May 2019, Lia Thomas began transitioning using hormone replacement therapy.

2019: Finished second at Ivy League championships

In 2019, Lia Thomas finished second in the men's 500, 1,000, and 1,650-yard freestyle at the Ivy League championships as a sophomore.

2019: Peak in Distance Swimming

In 2019, Lia Thomas's event progression peaked for distance swimming.

2021: Meets NCAA Hormone Therapy Requirements

By 2021, Lia Thomas had met the NCAA hormone therapy requirements to swim on the women's team.

January 10, 2022: Article Highlights Performance

On January 10, 2022, The Washington Post wrote that Lia Thomas had shattered school records and posted the fastest times of any female college swimmer in two events that season.

March 2022: Last College Swimming Event

In March 2022, the NCAA championship was Lia Thomas's last college swimming event at UPenn.

May 2022: Defends Herself in Interview

In May 2022, during an interview with Good Morning America, Lia Thomas defended herself from criticism and expressed her intention to continue swimming and to compete at the Olympic trials.