In the world of sports, the experiences of transgender and nonbinary sports participants are often misunderstood or overlooked. Now, a new research project aims to give voice to these stories, seeking to deepen understanding and awareness of the challenges and triumphs trans sport participants face. Ph.D. student Jess Hamdan, in collaboration with their advisor, Dr. Adam Love, at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is conducting a pivotal dissertation project on the experiences of adult transgender and nonbinary sport participants who have navigated gender category changes in sport.
Hamdan’s research is not just about data – it’s about the lived experiences, challenges, and personal insights of transgender and nonbinary sport participants. By participating, sport participants have an opportunity to contribute to a better understanding of how shifting gender categories affects everything from competition and training to social dynamics within teams and communities.
Who Can Participate?
The study is open to transgender and nonbinary individuals over the age of 18 who are currently active in sports or have participated in sports within the past 10 years. Whether you've transitioned categories in a professional league, a community sports team, or in another competitive setting, your story could play an important role in shaping future policies, practices, and perspectives in sports. Additionally, individuals are encouraged to participate if they are considering transitioning, are currently transitioning, have successfully transitioned, or have unsuccessfully attempted to transition.
Why Your Voice Matters
This project represents a rare chance to share real, nuanced stories that can influence the future of inclusivity in sports. By taking part, sport participants can help spotlight the experiences that too often go unheard, building empathy, insight, and potentially leading to transformative changes in how sports organizations approach inclusivity.
How to Get Involved
If you are interested in participating or want to learn more about the research, please reach out to Jess Hamdan at jhamdan@vols.utk.edu or Dr. Adam Love at alove1@utk.edu. Participation is confidential, and your perspective could make a meaningful difference in the ongoing conversation about transgender and nonbinary representation in sport.
If you know someone who may be interested, please feel free to share this post. Every story matters, and your support in sharing or participating helps amplify the voices of trans sport participants across the country.
Thank you for joining us in supporting a more inclusive future in sports.
I wasn’t confident about using the BJ Baji app until I came across this guide: https://bdtipsnet.com/overview-of-the-process-of-downloading-baji-apk-and-using-the-app/ . It walks you through every detail, from installation to exploring all its features. Now, I use it effortlessly every day and highly recommend it to anyone starting out. A must-read for beginners!