sport news Women's soccer team that fielded five trans players and trounced the opposition ... trends now
The women's football team at the centre of a transgender row have confirmed they have been fielding biological men for the past 20 years.
Flying Bats FC won every game they played over the course of the Beryl Ackroyd Cup, a pre-season tournament in Sydney, Australia, winning the grand final 4-0 at Macquarie Park on Sunday to take home the $1000 jackpot.
There were huge winning margins in some games, with one trans player scoring six goals in a 10-0 victory.
Parents and club officials have expressed their concern with the Bats' participation in the competition, with some withdrawing their daughters from games while others have called for the team to play in the mixed competition.
In response, Flying Bats club president Jennifer Peden has told Daily Mail Australia that 'trans women belong in the women's competition' and revealed that trans women have been playing for the club for at least 20 years.
The Flying Bats have been fielding trans women for at least 20 years, the club says
The team features five trans members - and it's been alleged other players in the competition didn't know they would be a chance of playing against them (stock image)
'Trans women belong in the women’s competition because that is the gender with which they identify,' she said.
'Trans women have played with the club for at least 20 years, at levels ranging from beginner to skilled, just like our cis women players.
'Our players are graded on ability, and placed in the team that is most appropriate for their skill and experience level, and we look forward to a respectful, competitive season across our 8 teams in 2024.'
Peden stressed the importance of inclusivity in sport, highlighting the multitude of benefits that comes with playing at all levels.
'As a club, the Flying Bats FC stand strongly for inclusion, and pride
