Transgender players will be banned from competing in women's hockey from next season, England Hockey has announced.
The governing body said the protection of “fair competition” was behind the move to introduce separate women's and open categories, thus ending trans participation in the women's game.
The decision follows a review carried out in consultation with guidelines issued by the Sports Council Equality Group (SCEG) and is based on the premise that “hockey requires the physical abilities of strength, endurance, speed and acceleration as key factors for success”, and is therefore “a sport affected by gender”.
In a statement, England Hockey said: “Based on this evidence, we have determined that the Trans and Non-Binary Participation Policy should limit trans participation to ensure fair competition.
“We are committed to supporting all affected players to ensure they find the right path to continue participating in hockey.
“The new trans and non-binary participation policy has been developed to ensure that everyone can participate in the game of hockey in a fair way.”
The changes will take effect on September 1, in time for the start of the 2025/26 season, when transgender athletes will be allowed to continue competing in the women's division.
A review of transgender participation – described by England Hockey as “comprehensive” – was launched in July 2023 following the publication of SCEG guidelines on transgender inclusion in women's sport.
It follows action by several governing bodies in other sports, including the Lawns Association, the Golf Tour LGPA and the England and Wales Cricket Board to restrict the participation of transgender athletes in women's categories.
Athletics, cycling and swimming have also introduced new policies in a similar fashion.