U.S. Masters Swimming (USMS) has built a community that celebrates swimming for life—welcoming people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. We’re proud to be part of that. But as the sport evolves, so too must our policies.

In 2022, World Aquatics (formerly FINA) introduced a balanced transgender policy: it preserves fairness in women’s competition by limiting eligibility to athletes who transitioned before male puberty, while committing to the creation of an “open category” where all athletes—including transgender and non-binary swimmers—can compete at the elite level. (FINA Inclusion Policy)

As FINA President Husain Al-Musallam explained:

“FINA will always welcome every athlete. The creation of an open category will mean that everybody has the opportunity to compete at an elite level. This has not been done before, so FINA will need to lead the way.”
— The Guardian, June 19, 2022

Currently, USMS does not align with this standard. This misalignment has raised concerns—especially among female athletes—about preserving a level playing field in competition. Scientific evidence shows that some physical advantages developed during male puberty, such as strength and endurance, may persist despite hormone therapy.

That’s why we’re asking USMS to:

• Adopt the World Aquatics transgender policy, limiting eligibility in the women’s category to those who transitioned before male puberty.
• Create an “open” or “non-binary” category for unrestricted competition, ensuring full inclusion.
• Establish clear, transparent procedures so athletes can confidently understand and follow the rules.

A recent Swimming World op-ed said it best: Fairness in sport is not optional. But neither is inclusion. We believe USMS can honor both—by leading with thoughtful, science-based policy that respects every athlete.

Sign this petition to urge USMS to take action. Let’s work together to protect the integrity of competition while making sure everyone has a place in the sport we love.

#FairAndInclusiveSwimming #USMSPolicyUpdate #EqualOpportunityInSport