USA rugby expands inclusivity with new 'open' division for all gender identities

USA Rugby has announced a significant update to its competitive structure, introducing a new "Open" division alongside the traditional Men’s and Women’s categories. This strategic move aims to broaden participation and ensure that athletes of all gender identities have a dedicated pathway to compete in the rapidly growing sport.

The governing body confirmed that the Open Division is designed to be inclusive of all participants. "The Open Division will permit any athlete, regardless of gender assigned at birth and gender identity, to compete in USA Rugby-sanctioned events, whether full contact or non-contact," the organization stated in an official release.

This policy update comes at a pivotal moment for rugby in the United States, as the sport sees rising popularity and the nation prepares to host the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The new framework allows USA Rugby to navigate current regulatory landscapes, including mandates from the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee regarding biological sex classifications in specific divisions, while simultaneously affirming a commitment to inclusivity.

Under the new system, athletes will self-identify their division status during the registration process. The organization clarified that division eligibility is determined when an athlete selects their gender option within Rugby Xplorer, the sport’s official membership platform. By selecting the Women's Division, athletes verify their eligibility under current guidelines, while the Open Division removes gender-based restrictions entirely.

This innovative approach seeks to balance compliance with federal and Olympic committee regulations while fostering a welcoming environment where every athlete has the opportunity to take the field.