Transgender players will no longer be allowed to participate in women’s hockey across England from the start of next season.
In a move that follows several other sports such as tennis and golf, England Hockey on Wednesday announced a new transgender and non-binary participation policy that will protect ‘fair competition’ by introducing separate female and open categories.
With transgender and non-binary players only allowed to compete in the open category, transgender participation in the women’s game will come to an end.
The changes will take effect on September 1, in time for the start of the 2025-2026 season, until then transgender athletes will be allowed to continue competing in the female category.
The decision comes following a review carried out in consultation with Sports Council Equality Group (SCEG) guidelines, and is based on the premise that “hockey requires the physical capabilities of strength, endurance, speed and acceleration as key factors for success.” and is therefore a “gender-influenced sport”.
‘The policy ensures that everyone can play hockey in a fair manner’
In a statement, England Hockey said: “Based on this evidence, we have determined that trans and non-binary participation policies must restrict the participation of trans people to ensure fair competition.
“We are committed to supporting all affected players to ensure they find the right path to continue participating in hockey.
“The new Trans and Non-Binary Participation Policy has been developed to ensure that everyone can participate in hockey in a fair manner.”
The review into transgender participation – which England Hockey has described as “comprehensive” – was launched in July 2023 following the publication in 2021 of SCEG guidance on transgender involvement in women’s sport.
It follows action taken by several governing bodies in other sports, including the Lawn Tennis Association, golf’s LPGA Tour and the England and Wales Cricket Board, to restrict the participation of transgender athletes in female categories.
Athletics, cycling and swimming have also introduced new policies along similar lines.
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