Sutton United Football Club, which recently signed trans Scottish goalkeeper Blair Hamilton, has revealed their women’s team fixture against Ebbsfleet United on Sunday, September 1 was postponed because of concerns around the safety and wellbeing of their players.
The club defended the addition of Hamilton and expressed “full support” for manager, Lucy Clark, who was the first openly trans referee before her appointment as manager by Sutton in January, stating that the signing of Hamilton is fully compliant with the league’s regulations.
In a statement, the club said: “The wellbeing and safety of all our players is of paramount importance to us and it was through an abundance of caution on this subject that the decision was made to postpone the match on Sunday. We will not tolerate any behaviour that undermines our values or puts anyone’s health or safety in jeopardy.”
The club said their focus was on handling the matter “with the utmost sensitivity and respect for the individuals involved” and added: “Following recent media reports regarding our women’s team and a recent player addition, the board would like to take this opportunity to express our full support of Lucy Clark in her decision to recruit based on ability, character and commitment to the team.
“We understand the sensitivity surrounding the issue of trans women in sports, and the club have followed all Football Association protocols and have confirmed that the player’s involvement is fully compliant with all legal and regulatory guidelines.
“Sutton United Football Club is committed to promoting a culture of inclusivity, respect and fair play. We reject any form of discrimination, including that based on gender identity.”
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