NRL Is Considering The Application Of A Transgender Athlete
starobserver.com.auA transgender athlete has reportedly lodged an application to play in the women’s National Rugby League in Australia.The Daily Mail reported that the application is being considered by the NRL.
Even if approved, the trans player may be able to play only in the next season which starts in August 2022.Melbourne Storm player Christian Welch recently said that it was “inevitable” that trans athletes would play in the NRL.It’s inevitable to happen but no I don’t think much discussion has been had on the topic Kim— Christian Welch (@clwelch94) March 20, 2022Welch was responding to a user, who had asked him whether, “on the back of the NCAA swimming in the US this week, has the RLPA (Rugby League Players Association) had any discussions on transgender athletes being integrated into the NRL/NRLW … grassroots or professional levels?”Welch replied: “It’s inevitable to happen but no I don’t think much discussion has been had on the topic.”According to the National Rugby League Member Protection Policy, it was “committed to supporting participation in our sport on the basis of the gender with which a person identifies.”NRL, in its policy, said that it was aware of the debate over whether male-to-female- trans athletes have any physical advantages.“If issues of performance advantage arise, we will seek advice on the application of those laws in the particular circumstances,” the policy explained.“The NRL is aware that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has established criteria for selection and participation in the Olympic Games.
