The revised Transgender & Non-Binary Eligibility Policy outlined below is effective Aug. 1, 2025.
On July 18 2025, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) issued new athlete‑safety guidelines that every national governing body must follow under a federal executive order. USA Fencing will therefore implement the Transgender & Non‑Binary Participation Policy first shared on April 15, 2025, effective Aug. 1, 2025, for all sanctioned competitions. These FAQs explain what that means for our athletes and events.
USA Fencing Transgender & Non-Binary Eligibility Policy: Frequently Asked Questions
First posted April 18, 2025, updated July 24, 2025
1. Why is USA Fencing updating this policy now?
The USOPC has required all national governing bodies to align their athlete‑eligibility policies with a federal executive order. Our update fulfills that requirement while preserving our commitment to inclusion and fairness.
2. When does the updated policy take effect?
August 1 2025. Competitions that begin on or after this date will follow the new policy.
3. Does this change affect events before August 1 , 2025?
No. Events that start before Aug. 1 follow the previous policy.
4. Which USA Fencing competitions are covered?
All sanctioned domestic events—national, regional, and local—must follow the policy.
5. What event categories are available under the new policy?
• Women’s category: Athletes of the female sex who meet all other entry criteria.
• Men’s category: Open to all athletes not eligible for the Women’s category, including transgender women, transgender men, non‑binary, intersex, and cisgender male athletes.
Mixed (all‑gender) events remain an option for hosts.
6. How does the policy affect international competition?
Athletes who qualify for FIE or World Abilitysport events must also meet those organizations’ eligibility rules, which may differ from USA Fencing’s domestic requirements.
7. What about anti‑doping requirements?
All athletes must follow World Anti‑Doping Agency rules. If medically necessary transition‑related medications appear on the Prohibited List, a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) from USADA may be required.
8. How do I report discrimination, harassment, or abuse?
Submit a report at https://www.usafencing.org/fencesafe-report.
9. What mental‑wellness resources are available?
Free, confidential support is offered through Endure Athletic Mental Fitness (endureathletic.com/usafencing).