|
Today England Netball are publishing the England Netball Gender Eligibility & Participation Policy which incorporates an updated approach to inclusion across the game following a detailed review and consultation process. We hope this provides clarity for our netball family, and we wish to extend our gratitude to everyone who has been part of the consultation process which has helped to shape where we have now landed.
Under this new policy, moving forward England Netball will recognise three distinct gender participation categories:
- Female netball
- Male netball
- Mixed netball
The female category will be exclusively for players born female, irrespective of their gender identity, whilst mixed netball will serve as the sport’s inclusive category, allowing players to compete under the gender with which they identify.
This new policy is designed to prioritise and uphold fairness on court within the female category.
Alongside defining clear participation categories, we remain dedicated to driving inclusivity and through our strategic partnership with EMMNA (England Men’s and Mixed Netball Association), will continue to fuel the growth of men’s and mixed netball through the provision of further opportunities for all players. We know our membership wants us to find a balance between protecting the female game and ensuring that there is an inclusive place for everyone to play our sport, and we also recognise and understand the importance of there being an appropriate playing environment for the transgender community to participate in. Rest assured that we are working to make this happen.
The Gender Eligibility & Participation Policy will come into effect across the game from 1st September 2025.
|