Sutton United have game postponed following concerns around transgender goalkeeper

Sutton United’s women’s team’s game against Ebbsfleet United, which was pencilled in to take place on Sunday, was suspended due to ‘safety concerns’ surrounding the inclusion of a transgender goalkeeper.

Blair Hamilton, an openly transgender player, was signed by Sutton this summer and made her debut for the club in a 6-0 win over Haywards Heath on August 25. The Amber and Chocolates’ women’s team’s head coach, Lucy Clark, is also transgender. After an ‘abundance of caution, Sutton decided to postpone their fixture against Ebbsfleet.

Sutton issued a statement on their official club website, which reads: “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 —criteria that apply to all players and the values of Sutton United Football Club.

“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.

“The well-being 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.”

Back in 2019, Hamilton spoke on her gender transitioning process, saying [via BBC Sport]: “They need to look at the science, what it actually does to your body. It does take away your muscle mass, your explosiveness. Your ratios from type-one to type-two fast-twitch fibres change - your body completely changes. I don't think they realise how much of a change hormone therapy makes. There is absolutely no advantage on the pitch.”