USA Rugby Creates Open Division for All Athletes

USA Rugby just expanded how athletes can compete, creating three distinct pathways for players who love the sport.

The national governing body announced Friday it will offer men's, women's, and open divisions at sanctioned events. The open category welcomes any athlete regardless of gender assigned at birth or gender identity.

The policy shift comes more than a year after federal directives about athletic competition and follows guidance from the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee. USA Rugby worked to balance compliance with creating opportunities for all players who want to participate in the fast-growing sport.

Athletes select their competition category during registration through the Rugby Xplorer system. USA Rugby retains the ability to verify registration details to ensure fair play across all three divisions.

The Bright Side

Rugby's physical demands have always required creative solutions for inclusive play. Many clubs already offer mixed-gender social leagues and touch rugby alternatives that prioritize participation over rigid categories.

The three-division approach attempts to honor competitive fairness while keeping the sport accessible. It recognizes that different athletes have different goals, from Olympic dreams to weekend recreation.

Rugby participation has grown significantly in America over the past decade, with youth programs and collegiate teams expanding nationwide. Creating multiple pathways could help the sport continue welcoming new players from diverse backgrounds.

The structure gives local organizers flexibility in how they host events while establishing clear national guidelines for competitive integrity.

Change in sports governance rarely pleases everyone immediately, but expanding options rather than limiting them reflects rugby's community-focused culture.