A Transgender Football Player's Journey: Overcoming Bullying and Celebrating Life in Urbandale, Iowa

Miles, Assigned Female at Birth and a Football Player in Urbandale, Iowa, Endured Years of Bullying, Misgendering, and Harassment

Miles's narrative serves as a poignant plea for empathy and understanding.

November 24, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on November 24, 2026

Ashley Campbell alleges that her son, Miles Phipps, endured years of bullying, misgendering, and harassment before taking his own life at 15.

Born female, Miles chose to identify as male early on, expressing his true self to his family.

The tale of Miles Phipps underscores the severe toll that persistent bullying can inflict on young lives.

He faced relentless mistreatment due to his nonconformity. Refusing to adhere to conventional gender roles, Miles embraced short haircuts and excelled in sports from childhood.

Targeted by peers for not fitting stereotypical 'girly' or 'boyish' molds, he eventually came out as transgender, adopting he/him pronouns.

Yet, acceptance did not follow; instead, bullying escalated into harassment both offline and online.

His mother recalls a landscape filled with 'senseless hatred,' from cruel pranks to public ridicule.

Despite these trials, Miles remained true to himself, refusing to alter his identity for others' comfort.

His mother's words echo his legacy: 'I loved him, not his gender.'

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A Legacy of Resilience: Miles Phipps's Light Continues to Shine

Miles, son of Rocky Phipps and Ashley Campbell, hailed from Urbandale, Iowa, where his spirit touched many.

At 15, this vibrant soul departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and kindness.

Engaged in academics at Johnston Elementary and Urbandale High, Miles found solace in the GSA Club, embracing his identity openly.

An avid enthusiast of wheeled sports and music, he poured his heart into skateboarding, rollerblading, and guitar compositions.

His passion for creativity extended to culinary arts, and he eagerly anticipated events like Comicon and cosplay conventions.

Family and friends remember Miles as a beacon of courage and authenticity.

In loving memory, Miles is honored with a candlelight vigil on November 9, celebrating his life and contributions.

Miles was a proud transgender man whose journey inspired those around him.

His gentle nature manifested through thoughtful gestures and a deep affection for animals, especially his cat, Shevee.

Survived by a loving family, Miles's memory lives on in every heart he touched.

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In tribute, donations will support a music scholarship under Miles's name, continuing his passion for art.

Miles's influence transcends his years, reminding us of the power of resilience and love.

Rest in Peace, Miles Phipps.
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Author: Ashish Maharjan, dedicated chronicler of human stories and athletic triumphs.

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