USA Rugby's decision in February to ban transgender women from competing in women's divisions has prompted significant backlash from players and teams across the country. The policy change updated the organization's eligibility requirements, restricting transgender women from participating in women's rugby competitions.

Within days of the announcement, approximately 300 people from around the United States joined a conference call to discuss their response to the new regulations. The reaction included coordinated protests from numerous teams who announced on social media their intention to refuse participation without their transgender teammates.

Dozens of rugby teams posted statements on their social media accounts declaring they would not compete under the new rules that exclude transgender players. The widespread opposition also included the establishment of a fund to provide financial support for affected players who wished to pursue legal challenges against the policy.

The controversy has been particularly pronounced in rugby, which participants and researchers describe as having a strong culture of inclusivity. Cameron Michels, a PhD student who studies queer and transgender players' experiences in women's rugby, noted that the sport has traditionally operated under the principle that "every body is a rugby body" and has been characterized as one of the most gender-inclusive sports.

Some players are reportedly considering competing only in USA Rugby's "open" category, which allows participation regardless of sex or gender identity. The open division represents an alternative competitive pathway that would allow transgender athletes to continue playing while the policy dispute continues.