Transgender women will be disqualified from competing in women's hockey across England from the beginning of the next season.
reaffirmed their transgender and non-binary participation policy on Wednesday by introducing separate female and open divisions to safeguard “fair competition”.
With only one category open to transgender and non-binary players, it will effectively end their participation in female competitions.
The alterations will come into force on 1 September in time for the beginning of the 2025-26 season, until which point transgender athletes will be allowed to carry on competing in the female category.
The decision follows a review, carried out with the Sports Council Equality Group, which advised they would consider the guidance set out. It's based on the idea that "hockey requires the physical capabilities of strength, endurance, speed and acceleration as key factors for success," and is therefore "a sport affected by gender."
‘The policy ensures everyone can take part in playing hockey in an equitable manner’.
In a statement, England Hockey stated: “Given this evidence, we have concluded that the Trans and Non-Binary Participation Policy should limit trans participation to ensure fair competition.
We are dedicated to assisting all impacted players in finding a suitable route for them to continue their involvement in hockey.
The new Trans and Non-Binary Participation Policy has been developed to ensure that everyone can participate in hockey fairly.
The review of transgender participation – which England Hockey has described as “comprehensive” – was launched in July 2023 following the release of the SCEG guidelines on transgender participation in female sport in 2021.
Limiting the involvement of transgender athletes in women's categories.
Athletics, cycling and swimming have introduced new policies in a similar vein.
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