NCR Reverses Transgender Policy Following Community Pressure and YSC Reporting

After swift and sustained pressure from players, coaches, and advocates across the rugby community, National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) has reversed its March 25 transgender eligibility policy. The decision follows an investigation and report by Your Scrumhalf Connection that highlighted how the policy “temporarily” suspended all waivers for trans women, effectively barring them from participating in women’s qualifying matches and championship events.

In a statement provided to YSC on April 7, NCR Board Chair Rafael Zahralddin confirmed the change:

“NCR is adopting the IOC 2015 standard for transgendered athletes used by the national governing body, USA Rugby, for use in its eligibility process.

NCR is keeping its more liberal policy that does not require a waiver for activities outside of qualifying matches and tournaments.

NCR already approved waiver(s) under this policy on Friday to allow for player(s) to compete in qualifiers over the weekend.

During the off season, NCR will reach out to get input from its stakeholders on eligibility issues, but have committed to, and will at minimum, apply the standard used by the national governing body for the upcoming NCR 15s season.

NCR’s medical staff and compliance committee will also work with the doctors for any player to effectuate a waiver using the IOC 2015 standard as the first step in the evaluation but keeping options open for consensus between the player’s doctor and NCR medical staff.”

NCR has also updated its Eligibility Policy webpage, which now reflects the change to the 2015 IOC transgender standard used by USA Rugby. The updated language confirms that waivers are again being processed and outlines the procedures for competitive and non-competitive play.

The community made their voices heard—and NCR responded.

The rugby community—led by athletes, coaches, administrators, and allies—responded immediately and collectively. Statements of support came from several major governing bodies, including USA Rugby, USA Club Rugby, and CRAA, all of whom reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive policies and stated they were not under any pressure to change. Across social media, email, and public platforms, community members made it clear: this policy was out of step with rugby’s values.

From the beginning, YSC worked to uncover the full story. We interviewed stakeholders, contacted NCR leadership, and verified claims from all sides. We also heard directly from affected players—many of whom spoke out despite the personal and emotional toll. It was this vigilance, shared across networks and amplified by advocates, that pushed this issue into the spotlight and helped drive change.

For now, one thing is clear: the community showed up, spoke out, and made a difference.

And the work isn’t done yet.

As conversations around fairness and inclusion continue to evolve, we’re hopeful that USA Rugby—and other governing bodies—will consider adopting the updated 2021 guidelines from the International Olympic Committee. These revised recommendations move away from outdated, one-size-fits-all standards and instead emphasize individual assessments, human rights, and the importance of avoiding medically unnecessary requirements for athletes. You can read the full IOC Framework here.