The Westphalia Football and Athletics Association (FLVW) has taken a significant step towards inclusivity by appointing Jan Sindern as its first dedicated contact person for trans, inter and non-binary players. This move aims to provide support and clarity regarding playing regulations for athletes navigating their gender identity within the region’s sporting landscape.
Sindern, who is transgender and transitioning to live as a man, will work alongside FLVW Vice President Marianne Finke-Holtz to address questions and concerns from players, and clubs. The appointment reflects a growing awareness and commitment to creating a more welcoming environment for all athletes, regardless of gender identity. This initiative comes after the German Football Association (DFB) implemented regulations addressing the playing rights of trans, inter, and non-binary individuals starting with the 2022/2023 season.
Currently playing for Westfalia Dortmund’s women’s team while undergoing gender reassignment surgery – specifically penoid reconstruction – Sindern brings a unique and valuable perspective to the role. “I am in official association structures,” Sindern remarked, acknowledging the significance of his position. He intends to leverage his experiences to support others, clarify rules, and foster understanding among teammates and opponents.
Supporting Players and Promoting Understanding
Sindern’s role extends beyond simply interpreting regulations. He envisions himself as a resource for players transitioning while participating in football, offering guidance and a safe space to address challenges. He also recognizes the need to educate opponents, acknowledging that seeing a player with a beard on a women’s team might raise questions. “It’s understandable that they wonder what’s going on,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of open communication and dispelling misconceptions.
Finke-Holtz, who also chairs the DFB’s Women’s Football Commission, has long advocated for these issues at the national level. “I am very pleased that we now have a contact person who will be very helpful based on her own experiences,” she said, highlighting the importance of lived experience in navigating these complex topics. Her commitment underscores the FLVW’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive sporting community.
DFB Regulations and Player Autonomy
The DFB’s regulations, implemented in 2022/2023, grant players with a marital status entry of “diverse” or “without specification,” or those who have undergone gender reassignment, the autonomy to choose whether to play on a men’s or women’s team. This policy also allows trans players to transition teams at a self-determined time or remain with their current team. Crucially, the regulations stipulate that participation is permitted as long as sporting activity while taking medication does not compromise the player’s health, explicitly ruling out any relevance to doping regulations. More information about the DFB regulations can be found on the FLVW website.
Sindern can be reached at [email protected] to provide support and answer questions.
The FLVW’s appointment of a dedicated contact person represents a proactive approach to inclusivity in Westphalian football and athletics. As awareness and understanding of gender identity continue to grow, this initiative sets a positive example for other sporting organizations. The next step will be to monitor the implementation of these policies and assess their impact on creating a truly welcoming and equitable environment for all athletes.
What are your thoughts on the FLVW’s new initiative? Share your comments below and help us continue the conversation.
