Female athletes in England refused to play against a transgender woman in a soccer match after a previous incident where a female player suffered a broken knee while blocking a shot from the transgender player, causing fear among the athletes.
Two matches in the Sheffield and Hallamshire Women’s League were canceled due to the boycott.
The transgender player, Francesca Needham, announced stepping down from playing for the Rossington Main Ladies, but also threatened to file a lawsuit over the matter.
Transgender footballer quits after 'rival teams refuse to play against her'
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“At least four teams in a Sheffield women’s football league are boycotting matches after a club fielded a transgender player accused of causing a season-ending injury to an opponent,” The Telegraph of London reported.
“This unfortunate circumstance has prompted me to investigate pursuing a case of discrimination, as I believe it represents a breach of the code of conduct regarding diversity and inclusion, as well as safeguarding of adults in football established by both the Football Association and the Sheffield and Hallamshire Women and Girls League,” Needham said.
The Football Association is reviewing its transgender policy for English football, but the current policy states that gender identity should not be a barrier to participation in football.
“It was obvious,” the manager stated. “Unfortunately, the FA allowed it to happen but didn’t let anyone know.
“She’s quite a big strong player. People have refused to play because they are worried about the safety of the players. My players were backing out of challenges as psychologically it’s quite a big thing, when you are playing against a biological man it’s quite scary. They were terrified.”
“This issue is complex and constantly evolving,” the Football Association said, “and like many other national governing bodies in sport, we are currently reviewing our transgender policy for English football to ensure it is inclusive, fair and safe for all.”
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