NWSL Player’s Call for Gender Standards Sparks Teambacklash
Elizabeth Eddy, an 11-year veteran of the National Women’s Soccer League, has sparked controversy by calling for the league to adopt gender standards to protect the integrity of women’s sports and promote inclusion. Her column published in the New York Post last week argues that the NWSL must implement clear standards, such as restricting eligibility to players born with ovaries or requiring genetic testing similar to those used in other sports organizations. However, her comments have faced strong criticism from her teammates, with several expressing concerns that the article was transphobic, racist, and harmful to the team’s inclusive culture.
Sarah Gorden and Angelina Anderson, both teammates, rebuked Eddy’s column, calling it transphobic and racist, and expressing hurt and disgust at the article’s content. They emphasized the importance of the team’s commitment to inclusivity and highlighted the distress caused by the article, particularly its undertones of racism and the use of an African player’s image as a headline. Angel City, the club, has consistently positioned itself as a supportive and inclusive space for all athletes. The team stressed its commitment to maintaining a respectful and belonging environment within the team, even amidst current challenges.
The National Women’s Soccer League has also responded to the controversy, confirming its commitment to working with the NWSL Players Association to address any potential policy changes. The league’s stance underscores the need for a balanced approach that respects both the integrity of sports and the rights of all athletes, highlighting the complex nature of the debate over gender standards in women’s competitions.