FA launches new guidelines for trans players
The FA has launched a new policy on transgender people playing football.
The guidelines were unveiled today as part of an LGBT workshop at Wembley Stadium.
Any transgender person wishing to play in their affirmed gender can seek to do so by contacting the FA to obtain clearance.
The governing body said the application will take the form of a confidential conversation with the applicant and details of the evidence that the FA would require will be discussed with the person concerned.
Funke Awoderu, the FA’s equality manager, said: “This is a pioneering move for football and one which is designed to help give visibility to the trans community.
“It is something true to The FA’s mantra that football really is for everyone and I’m pleased this provision has been made to trans people wanting to get involved in our national game.”
Tuesday’s event welcomes groups and individuals working across the game in the LGBT field with Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur as well as a number of county FAs.
A second event will take place at St George’s Park on Tuesday 2 December.
Both events are free and will offer attendees the opportunity to learn how best to engage with LGBT groups and initiatives in football.
Guest presenters include the Gay Football Supporters’ Network, Kick It Out, Just A Ball Game?, Stonewall and Transsexuals in Sport.
The sessions will examine homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in football, the language used, the impact it has and some best practice examples of what is happening across the game to counter the abuse.
