England Hockey has announced that transgender players will be banned from competing in women’s hockey from next season.
The governing body will introduce separate female and open categories, effectively ending transgender participation in the women’s game.
A decision was made to protect “fair competition” in the sport, following a comprehensive review of transgender participation policies.
The changes will affect the start of the 2025/26 season, with transgender athletes permitted to continue competing in the female category until then.
England Hockey has announced that transgender players will be banned from competing in women’s hockey from next season
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The review was conducted in consultation with guidance from the Sports Council Equality Group (SCEG).
England Hockey determined that hockey is a “gender-affected sport” due to its physical requirements.
The governing body highlighted that success in hockey depends on key factors including strength, endurance, speed and acceleration.
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The review process began in July 2023, following the publication of SCEG guidelines on trans involvement in female sport in 2021.
In a statement, England Hockey said: “Based on this evidence, we have determined that the Trans and Non-Binary Participation Policy should restrict trans participation in order to secure fair competition.”
The governing body emphasised their commitment to supporting affected players.
“We are committed to supporting all affected players to ensure they find the right path for them to continue to participate in hockey,” the statement continued.
England Hockey added: “The new Trans and Non-Binary Participation Policy has been developed to ensure everyone can participate in the playing of hockey in a fair way.”
The new policy will come into effect on September 1, 2025, coinciding with the start of the 2025/26 season.
England Hockey’s decision follows similar actions taken by several other sporting bodies.
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The Lawn Tennis Association, LGPA Golf Tour, and the England and Wales Cricket Board have all implemented restrictions on transgender athletes in female categories.
Athletics, cycling and swimming governing bodies have also introduced comparable policies.
Until the September implementation date, transgender athletes will be allowed to continue competing in the female category.