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On the end of October, ACFC athlete Elizabeth Eddy made her initial social media post in nearly two years. Within her message, she addressed reports that the National Women's Soccer League had discreetly dropped its inclusion policy for trans and intersex athletes, leaving the organization's position undecided.

The following day, her writing was republished completely by another media outlet, providing wider exposure.

“I worry that without clarity about who the league is for, it will sacrifice its character and its momentum,” Eddy wrote.

The article generally argued for a prohibition on transgender players from the NWSL to preserve “the integrity of female athletics.”

Questioning the Real Threat

It's unclear how Eddy believes the league's credibility has been damaged—either under its former policy that permitted trans athletes or its present lack of one. The league, now in its thirteenth year, has developed a distinct brand. It's highly competitive, commercially and culturally powerful, and an essential part of the global female football scene.

The league's momentum appears largely strong—audience numbers have increased every season, and growth to 16 teams is planned for 2026.

Examining the Evidence

Eddy references the English FA's recent ban on trans players as a positive example. However, that restriction is believed to affect only 20 or so grassroots participants out of millions registered athletes. The impact in the United States would likely be similarly negligible.

Two years ago, when the NWSL's policy of inclusion was implemented, there were two trans players: one player and Kumi Yokoyama. Both have since left, and no openly transgender athletes currently play in the NWSL. On the current season's opening weekend, the league welcomed its thousandth player. That's just two out trans players out of more than a thousand in league history.

Baseless Concerns and Real Damage

Eddy's piece is framed as if there is a stream of transgender athletes ready to dominate the NWSL imminently. This is not the case. At present, there are no openly transgender players competing at a elite level in the United States. Federal legislation explicitly bans transgender athletes from competing in NCAA college soccer. Additionally, multiple peer-reviewed research have shown that trans athletes have no biological advantages over cisgender competitors.

Without of out trans people, discriminatory behavior have continued along ethnic divisions. When a club's Barbra Banda was named a top honor, she faced a wave of online abuse. The league was painfully slow in defending their key athlete. Likewise, another team's Temwa Chawinga and her sister have experienced similar mistreatment.

“That article does not represent for this team in this locker room,” team leader Sarah Gorden told reporters. “We don't agree with the content for a multitude of causes, but mostly the implications come across as discriminatory against trans people and racist as well.”

Additional Urgent Issues Facing the NWSL

Even if one were to ignore these points and believe that trans inclusion represents a real problem for the league, it's hard to see how it would surpass multiple of other issues that have actually blunted the league's momentum and compromised its reputation.

• Employment standards for staff remain a problem. Several ex- club employees are suing the team and the NWSL, alleging bias based on race and ability, sexual harassment, and failure to stop prejudice.
• Player care is another issue. In spring, a player Savy King collapsed on the field, requiring emergency medical treatment. On-field play resumed, despite teammates were clearly upset. The NWSLPA called on the NWSL to review their medical protocols.
• Severe climate protocols have also been questioned. During a nationally televised match, the NWSL commissioner allegedly threatened to fine a team over a dispute in extreme heat procedures.
• Economic competition from leagues abroad like the WSL is growing, luring top talent away from the NWSL and country where they made their careers.

Trans athletes did not factor into any one of these challenges. And it's unlikely they will, regardless of whether Eddy's suggestions are implemented.