Story perspectives

Charlotte Royals Shift to Open Rugby Division Amid Controversy

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Charlotte Royals rugby program eliminated its women's teams to form an open division after USA Rugby restricted biological females to women's competitions.
The change follows a law banning trans women from competing in women's divisions.
The Royals and Mother Ruckers support the open category, citing inclusion for trans athletes.
Critics say the open category lets trans athletes compete against women and reduces female-only options, citing Trump's executive order.

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Story summary

The Charlotte Royals rugby program eliminated its women's teams to form an open division after USA Rugby restricted biological females to women's competitions.
The change follows a law banning trans women from competing in women's divisions.
The Royals and Mother Ruckers support the open category, citing inclusion for trans athletes.
Critics say the open category lets trans athletes compete against women and reduces female-only options, citing Trump's executive order.