USA Fencing has come out in support of transgender athlete Redmond Sullivan following an incident at The Cherry Blossom tournament held at the University of Maryland.
Sullivan, who competed in the Division IA Women’s Foil event, faced a silent protest from opponent Stephanie Turner, who kneeled and discarded her mask before their match. Turner was then disqualified after being shown a black card.
In response to the situation, USA Fencing told the Irish Star in a statement: “USA Fencing enacted our current transgender and non-binary athlete policy in 2023.
“The policy was designed to expand access to the sport of fencing and create inclusive, safe spaces. The policy is based on the principle that everyone should have the ability to participate in sports and was based upon the research available of the day.
“We understand that the conversation on equity and inclusion pertaining to transgender participation in sport is evolving. USA Fencing will always err on the side of inclusion, and we’re committed to amending the policy as more relevant evidence-based research emerges, or as policy changes take effect in the wider Olympic and Paralympic movement.
“We respect the viewpoints on all sides and encourage our members to continue sharing them with us as the matter evolves. It’s important for the fencing community to engage in this dialogue, but we expect this conversation to be conducted respectfully, whether at our tournaments or in online spaces. The way to progress is by respectful discussion based in evidence.”
The organization emphasized its duty to maintain fairness, noting that it’s to “ensure that all athletes, regardless of their personal positions, compete under the same rules established by our international federation.”
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It also referenced the International Fencing Federation’s (FIE) Technical Rules, specifically Article t. 113, which mandates that a fencer cannot refuse to compete against another properly entered fencer. USA Fencing clarified Turner’s disqualification was not due to any statement she made but because she violated FIE rules by refusing to fence an eligible competitor.
“In the case of Stephanie Turner, her disqualification was not related to any personal statement but was merely the direct result of her decision to decline to fence an eligible opponent, which the FIE rules clearly prohibit,” the statement from USA Fencing continued.
“USA Fencing is obligated to follow the letter of those rules and ensure that participants respect the standards set at the international level. We remain committed to inclusivity within our sport while also upholding every requirement dictated by our governing body.”
Sullivan made headlines in 2024 after transferring to Wagner College’s women’s team, having previously competed in the men’s division. Sullivan took first place out of six competitors in the Junior Women’s Foil at the Connecticut Division Junior Olympic Qualifiers in December 2024.
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
