The Amsterdam Lowlanders Rugby Club Transgender Inclusion Clinic

The Amsterdam Lowlanders Rugby Club Transgender Inclusion Clinic

The Amsterdam Lowlanders Rugby Club invites you to participate in a clinic aimed at raising understanding and increasing awareness of transgender inclusion in rugby.

Transgender player inclusion in rugby has been a hot topic in recent years. World Rugby, the highest governing body in rugby, has proposed a blanket law for transwomen playing at all levels, from elite to grassroot, stating that they should be banned from the game and are not allowed to play with ciswomen, under the pretence this would pose a safety risk. Where many other governing bodies and organizations within sports have developed policies and guidelines to support transgender athletes, ensuring they have equal opportunities to participate in sport at all levels, there are still stigmas and perceptions about the inclusion of trans athletes in rugby, including accommodations such as the ability to compete in accordance with their gender identity. Educational resources and support systems are needed to raise awareness and promote understanding among coaches, players, and fans, and ultimately governing bodies. By embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, rugby can take important steps towards creating a more equitable and welcoming environment for all, inside and outside the sport.

At A Glance
Saturday 4 March
11:15 – 11.45 Welcome and coffee in the ARC Clubhouse
11.45- 13.00 Clinic on Trans inclusion in Rugby
13.00- 13:45 Lunch
14:30 – 16:00 Lowlanders W vs. Netherlands National Student Team Match.
The clinic and match will take place at Amstelveense Rugby Club

Full session guide
11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
Amstelveense Rugby Clubhouse open, welcoming participants with coffee. Sportlaan 25a, 1183 BT Amstelveen
11:45 PM to 12:10 PM
Common Misconceptions in Women’s Rugby regarding Trans Players. Discussion led by Joost on the fears, commonly held misconceptions and sharing of personal experiences. Participants will be divided into teams to encourage honest responses.
12:10 PM to 12:50 PM
Challenging Misconceptions through Sports led by Michelle. An interactive physical workout featuring various rugby exercises and activities aimed at debunking the top three misconceptions.
12:50 PM to 1:00 PM
Wrap Up and Closing Thoughts led by Michelle and Joost. A discussion on actions that can be taken to bring change to the sport.
1:00 PM – 13:45
Lunch for all participants
14:30 – 16:00
Lowlanders W vs. Netherlands National Student Team Match. All participants are invited to stay and watch this match.

What to wear
Please come dressed for outdoor physical activity. This workshop will not only challenge your mind but also your body, so wear comfortable workout clothing. Sports shoes with studs are preferred, but normal trainers are also fine. We suggest bringing a change of clothes in case the activities get muddy. Playing rugby involves physical contact. If you have your own gumshield (mouthgard or ‘gebitsbeschermer’) you are advised to bring it. Gumshields will be provided at the clinic. There are facilities to change and/or shower privately if preferred.

Contact Us:
Brandon Oelofse | President
president@amsterdamlowlanders.nl +31640801796

Sije van der Veen | Club Secretary
info@amsterdamlowlanders.nl +31648685594

Yaseen Schrueder | Team Manager M
teammanager@amsterdamlowlanders.nl +31614802157

Tanja Schmitz | Team Manager W
women@amsterdamlowlanders.nl +491788187384